K. Kadis: Seas as a lever for EU's strategic autonomy

European Commissioner Kostas Kadis highlighted the strategic role of the seas in strengthening Europe's strategic autonomy and food security at the Cyprus Forum Brussels.

In his speech, Mr. Kadis emphasized that the EU is a maritime union with 70,000 km of coastline and the largest exclusive economic zone worldwide.

The seas host critical transport and energy infrastructure, support coastal communities, and play an important role in EU security.

The Commissioner for Fisheries and Oceans clarified that strategic autonomy means the ability to act and resilience.

Europe's blue economy supports 5 million jobs and generates over €250 billion in gross added value annually, including sectors such as maritime transport, fisheries and renewable energy.

Mr. Kadis emphasized the role of the European Ocean Pact, which ensures that goals in trade, transport, energy, security and the environment are mutually reinforcing.

Strengthening sustainable domestic seafood production is a strategic necessity for Europe's resilience, as approximately 70% of the seafood consumed in the EU is imported.

The Commissioner mentioned that strategies for island and coastal communities are expected to be adopted during the Cypriot Presidency.