In Malta, the 28 members of the European Union have announced an ambitious package of 36 EU-initiatives to foster healthier, cleaner, safer and more secure oceans.
More than €6 billion have been committed by public and private actors at the EU-hosted “Our Ocean” conference 2017 in Malta on October 5-6, to better manage the oceans.
On behalf of the EU, High Representative for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy, Vice-President Federica Mogherini and Environment, Maritime Affairs and Fisheries Commissioner Karmenu Vella announced on October 5 over €550 million of EU-funded initiatives to tackle global oceans challenges.
At the conference, First Vice-President Frans Timmermans announced that the European Commission would phase out by end 2017 all single-use plastic cups in water fountains and vending machines in its buildings in Brussels.
Furthermore, Development Commissioner Neven Mimica reaffirmed on behalf of the EU and its African, Caribbean, and Pacific partners their commitment for sustainable ocean governance.
Maltese host, Prime Minister Dr Joseph Muscat welcomed all attending guests and speakers. Prominent support from the cause was at hand with the participation of HM Queen Dowager Noor al-Hussein of Jordan, HRH The Prince of Wales and HSH The Sovereign Prince of Monaco.
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For further information:
https://ourocean2017.org
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Picture by European Union, Matthew Mirabelli 2017
