The EU has decided to table three proposals in line with scientific advice for the area: a management plan for the whole Adriatic region, and measures to deal with overfishing and fishing for juveniles in most areas falling within the GFCM's competence. A further specific proposal to enhance the management of fisheries in the Black Sea will also be put forward.

Maria Damanaki, European Commissioner for Fisheries and Maritime Affairs stated that : "This is a very clear signal the EU is sending to all our partners in the area. We are serious about conservation and about international cooperation. We are ready to work with everybody in the region and we feel GFCM is the appropriate body to foster such cooperation."

The EU will also propose to launch a reform process of the organisation, to promote actions and initiatives to foster a level playing field in the area and to enhance cooperation among Mediterranean and Black sea states to in the fight against illegal, unreported and unregulated fishing.

The GFCM is a Regional Fisheries Management Organisation for the Mediterranean and Black Sea and connecting waters. It has 24 members, including the EU and 9 EU member states (Bulgaria, Cyprus, France, Greece, Italy, Malta, Romania, Slovenia, and Spain). Croatia is also a GFCM member. Japan, Russia, Georgia and Ukraine are observers.