UN agreement on the high seas is what the Paris agreement is for climate, according to Van Quickenborne

The minister considers the UN agreement on the protection of the high seas “very important for Belgium since, as the founder of the Blue Leaders in 2019, our country is a strong supporter of the protection of the ocean and the preservation of its resources”.

“This is a historic treaty. A crucial step for all who care about the ocean. The BBNJ treaty for the ocean is what the 2015 Paris Agreement is for the climate. After more than 17 years of negotiations, we can finally the high seas. After all, 70 percent of the earth consists of water, 3/4 of which is the open sea. The high seas are crucial for sustaining life on earth. They are the source of food and energy for millions of people , regulates the climate and provides oxygen,” said the minister.

CONFERENCE OF THE PARTIES

In addition to the natural areas of the high seas, the Convention also addresses access to marine genetic resources and the fair sharing of benefits arising therefrom, environmental impact assessments of activities on the high seas, capacity building and the transfer of marine technology. Like the climate treaty, the treaty will also organize a COP ‘Conference of the Parties’.

As a Blue Leader, Belgium will throw its weight into being able to quickly capture the first nature reserve on the high seas, Van Quickenborne adds.

As is the case for other international conventions, a secretariat will also be set up for BBNJ. Belgium, one of the founders of the Blue Leaders, is a candidate to set up this important secretariat in Brussels. “This is not only in line with our country’s commitment in recent years, but would also significantly increase Belgium’s international marine prestige,” said the Open VLD minister.