Our Ocean: The European Union hosts international conference in Malta to generate global action for safe, secure and healthy oceans

The European Union will host the fourth edition of the Our Ocean Conference in Malta, on 5 – 6 October 2017. The Our Ocean Conference aims to inspire joint solutions and gather ambitious commitments to conserve and sustainably use the oceans. More than 40 ministers and other leaders from more than 100 countries across the globe and several top managers from international companies are expected to attend the meeting and to announce substantial and concrete pledges. On behalf of the EU, High Representative / Vice-President Mogherini and Commissioner Vella will be co-hosting the event, in the presence of First Vice-President Timmermans and Commissioner Mimica. Significant resources will be committed to strengthen the fight against marine pollution and enlarge protected areas, reinforce security of the oceans, foster blue economy initiatives and sustainable fisheries and intensify the EU efforts against climate change, in line with the Paris Agreement and the Sustainable Development Goals under Agenda 2030. Our Ocean 2017 has already attracted over 200 commitments and counting, including from more than 50 companies, ranging from the traditional fisheries sector to the Silicon Valley high-tech industries. The Conference will be web streamed live here.