The Common Maritime Agenda - the first of its kind in the region - is the result of a process initiated and backed by the European Commission. Between 2015 and 2018 alone, the European Union has supported the region’s blue economy, which represents all economic activities related to our oceans, seas or coastal areas, with more than 13 million euros.

Karmenu Vella, Commissioner for Environment, Maritime Affairs and Fisheries, said: “Today the Black Sea region has taken a step towards a new type of sea basin strategy – one based on workable cross-border projects. This will push the region's blue economy forward sustainably.  The countries that share the shores of the Black Sea can make this a success and the European Commission will continue to offer its full support”. Black Sea countries will pursue three goals: healthy marine and coastal ecosystems; a competitive, innovative and sustainable blue economy; and fostering investment in the blue economy.

More information

• Ministerial Conference
• Ministerial declaration on a Common Maritime Agenda for the Black Sea
• Annex 1: Common Maritime Agenda for the Black Sea
• Annex 2: Common Maritime Agenda for the Black Sea, Implementation Process
• Black Sea strategic research and innovation agenda
• Fact sheet: EU supports better cooperation in the Black Sea region