Commissioner Damanaki will give a speech on the importance of Europe in the Global Maritime Economy. She will also update stakeholders on both progress made and developments foreseen in the five key areas set out in the Commisson's Blue Growth strategy for the maritime economy of Europe, adopted in September 2012. These areas are aquaculture, energy, tourism, blue biotechnology and seabed-mining. Before leaving for Paris Ms Damanaki highlighted that "the benefits that we could derive from the maritime economy would be outstanding; we are talking about over one million new jobs and billions of euros by the end of this decade".

Euromaritime, a marine and maritime economy event, is hosting its first edition at Parc des Expositions, Porte de Versailles, Paris on 5th, 6th and 7th February. It will showcase 180 exhibitors in an area of 6,000m2.  Euromaritime has received the patronage of the European Commission.

More information:

• EUROMARITIME
• Blue Growth