Cape Verde is a guest country at the international Blue Leaders meeting on ocean protection, which takes place this Thursday in Brussels, representing the country’s work in the Blue Economy.
Minister of the Sea Abraan Vicente will attend the event to talk about Cape Verde’s experience in terms of the blue economy – activities related to the oceans, from fisheries to tourism, among others, and their relationship with the principles of sustainable development.
The Blue Leaders are made up of 24 countries, including Portugal, the only Portuguese-speaking country, who are calling for urgent action to save the world’s oceans in the face of the climate crisis, overfishing, pollution and other threats.
The group was born during the 2021 Climate Summit (COP26), when its member countries signed a declaration with two core principles: setting a “new global goal to protect at least 30% of the world’s oceans by 2030” and “rapidly completing a new Consolidated Agreement.” . Treaty of States for the Conservation and Protection of Ocean Biodiversity Beyond National Jurisdiction.”
This Thursday’s meeting is part of the program of the Belgian Presidency of the European Council.
The meeting program includes discussion panels with the participation of representatives of governments and international organizations in the field of science and youth.
One of the main documents in focus will be the United Nations Biodiversity Treaty (BBNJ Treaty or High Seas Treaty) and the link between the ocean and climate.
An archipelago in the Atlantic Ocean, almost the entire territory of Cape Verde consists of the sea, with which the country – 10 islands, nine inhabited – is connected in almost all areas of economic and social activity.