Nicosia, Cyprus. European Fisheries Commissioner Costas Kadis said the European Union will put forward two new strategies for coastal communities and islands during Cyprus’ six-month term holding the rotating presidency of the Council of the EU.
Plans for two strategies
Speaking to the Sunday Mail, Kadis said the two strategies will complement one another and will be “extremely relevant for Cyprus”.
He said coastal communities have “enormous potential for sustainable development” but face common challenges, including the effects of climate change. For islands such as Cyprus, he said there are additional challenges linked to insularity, including connectivity, energy and waste management.
Kadis said the main aim of the strategies will be “to step up support to EU islands and coastal communities”.
Population and sector priorities
Kadis said around 95 million people live on islands or in coastal communities within the EU’s borders. He said the strategies are intended to help communities better seize opportunities and address challenges, including generational renewal and the energy transition in the fisheries sector.
He said the strategies will be launched in June, Cyprus’ last month holding the Council of the EU’s rotating presidency.
Ocean observation initiative
Kadis said the EU also plans to launch an “ocean observation initiative” during the first half of this year, with the aim of leading globally on ocean observation by collecting information and data on the marine environment.
He said the data would be used for purposes including “research and Innovation, climate and ocean forecasting, early warning systems, defence and civil protection, maritime security, the blue economy, safety at sea, marine conservation and restoration, pollution monitoring, and environmental management”.
Common fisheries policy evaluation
Kadis said the EU intends to complete its evaluation of its common fisheries policy within the next few months, with the results to be presented at an informal ministerial meeting in Cyprus in May.
What do you want to see included in the EU’s new strategies for islands and coastal communities?
