Ayia Napa, Cyprus. Deputy Minister for Research, Innovation and Digital Policy Nicodemos Damianou said the sea is central to Cyprus’ daily life, economy and future, while warning that the Mediterranean faces urgent climate-related challenges.
Mediterranean climate and marine pressures
Speaking at a conference titled “From marine science to policymaking and from ocean research and development to the market,” Damianou said the Mediterranean is recognised as a hotspot of climate change and is warming significantly faster than many other parts of the planet.
He said impacts are already affecting societies and economies, including more frequent marine heatwaves, coastal erosion, water stress and the degradation of sensitive marine ecosystems.
Damianou said the challenges are not only environmental but also economic, geopolitical and social, and require urgent action, cooperation and a long-term perspective.
EU initiatives and research programmes
Damianou referred to EU efforts, including the Oceans Pact announced by the European Commission in June 2025 and an upcoming strategy on research and innovation in the ocean sector.
He said Horizon Europe remains a key tool to support initiatives such as the EU mission to restore oceans and waters and the sustainable blue economy partnership, in which Cyprus participates.
He added that the next EU framework programme, currently under negotiation during Cyprus’ presidency, is expected to support ocean-related policies through the development of next-generation ocean observation technologies and infrastructure.
Cyprus priorities and national actions
Damianou said Cyprus’ strategic position at the crossroads of Europe, the Middle East and north Africa shapes its priorities under its presidency of the Council of the European Union, reflecting links between society’s future and the health of the seas.
He cited national initiatives including the maritime spatial plan and the Eastern Mediterranean and Middle East Climate Change Initiative as examples of Cyprus’ commitment to translating European priorities into regional action.
What steps do you think should be prioritised to address marine heatwaves and coastal erosion in the Mediterranean?