The Ocean Pact and animal welfare were among the topics discussed during a meeting held Thursday between Commissioner for the Environment and Animal Welfare, Elias Myrianthous, and European Commissioner for Fisheries and Oceans, Costas Kadis.
During the meeting, which was also attended by Head of the European Commission Representation in Cyprus, Panikos Pourgourides, Myrianthous provided an overview of his Office’s responsibilities and initiatives, followed by an exchange of views regarding European policies on marine environmental protection, fisheries and aquaculture, marine pollution, and cooperation among Mediterranean countries, according to a press release issued by his office..
Kadis referred to the European Ocean Pact as well as to the preparation of the European Ocean Act, which will serve as the legislative component of the Pact, establishing common objectives and strengthening the coordination of maritime activities.
The MedFish4Ever Declaration, which sets out the framework for cooperation on sustainable fisheries in the Mediterranean, was also discussed.
Regarding fisheries and aquaculture, Kadis highlighted Cyprus’s strong performance in the aquaculture sector, describing it as a positive example within the EU in terms of production quality and adherence to environmental standards.
Myrianthous talked about the increased presence of microplastics and plastic waste along the Cypriot coastline. They discussed European policies aimed at reducing plastic pollution at the source, as well as the potential for leveraging European programs and transnational partnerships.
Animal welfare was also discussed, focusing on the new European regulation concerning the protection of dogs and cats as well as information and awareness-raising campaign to inform citizens and relevant stakeholders about the provisions of the new regulation before it comes into effect in 2028.