Meeting Greenlandic youth and academics at the University of Greenland piloting a new study programme rooted in Greenland’s unique natural environment, culture and labour market needs.🇬🇱 We continued discussions with researchers and scientists at the Greenland Institute of Natural Resources, which offered valuable insights into the study of Arctic ecosystems and the sustainable management of natural resources. This is the bedrock of Greenland’s sustainable future and a source of inspiration for our work on the EU ocean research and innovation strategy coming up next year.

Concluding my visit to Greenland 🇬🇱🇪🇺 Thank you to Minister Peter Borg for the warm hospitality. Our bilateral talks allowed us to dive deep into local realities, mapping out shared challenges and mutual goals in fisheries management and ocean governance. 🌊🐟 🇬🇱 🇪🇺

In Nuuk on a two-day visit deepening the 🇪🇺🇬🇱 partnership on ocean governance, fisheries, and the blue economy in the Arctic. Fisheries are the economic foundation of many communities across Greenland. We can do a lot to advance our shared goals for responsible use of resources, strengthening local business and livelihoods.

In Giardini di Naxos, extremely enriching to exchange views with representatives of Fisheries Local Action Group (FLAG) Riviera Jonica Etnea, representing 11 municipalities. Our discussions focused on the challenges facing local fisheries, including the need to ensure proper bluefin tuna quota allocation at national level for the longline sector, unfair competition from third countries, fuel prices and difficulties to find a crew. I heard a strong call for more Europe, decive action on unfair practices, vessels modernization and the continuation of FLAGs in costal areas where fisheries strongly contribute to the local identity and economy.

Starting my third day in Capo Milazzo, with a clear message: Marine Protected Areas work best when managed together with the people who live and work in them.   Effective marine conservation depends on collaboration between local authorities, scientists, civil society, schools and, importantly, fishers.   My thanks to the Municipality of Milazzo, the Capo Milazzo MPA, @marevivosicily, the Harbour Master’s Office, the Sicily Marine Centre Anton Dohrn, the University of Messina, CO.GE.PA. and the nautical institute for their valuable contributions to today’s discussion.