Ms Aspaker shared Norway's views on the perceived  gaps in ocean governance and what the international community should do to fill them. The Commission is undertaking a wide-ranging consultation on international ocean governance, with submissions possible until 15 October. The Minister and the Commissioner met during the summer (16 July) at the North Atlantic Ministers conference in Malta.
 
"Both Norway and the EU want to promote blue growth – and to create maritime jobs that offer opportunities to our coastal communities. Norway and the EU agree that such blue growth must be environmentally, economically and socially sustainable. Both the EU and Norway can be justifiably proud of  our positions as global leaders on ocean governance. We share a responsibility to encourage international action," Mr Vella said.
 
In addition to highlighting ocean governance, Mr Vella used the meeting to discuss ongoing EU cooperation with Norway in areas of mutual interest, including fisheries, aquaculture, research, blue growth and Arctic policy.
 
He also met researchers from the University of Tromsø, the world's northernmost university, where he delivered the keynote address entitled "Towards Better Ocean Governance".
 
Mr Vella had a practical insight into Norway's ocean governance approach when he took a tour on-board the Norwegian coast guard vessel "KV Sortland".

Article in World Fishing and Aquaculture