The conference, "The case for Maritime Spatial Planning: efficient resource management for sustainable growth", will be attended by ministers, national authorities, industry representatives and NGOs. Maritime Spatial Planning, as promoted in the EU's Integrated Maritime Policy, is a key tool for creating an environment in which the maritime economy can grow in harmony with the surrounding ecosystem. Transparency, stability, predictability and reduced transaction costs are the factors that encourage and accelerate investments – and are among the benefits that Maritime Spatial Planning can bring. The Maritime Economy is a motor for growth in Europe. The conference will discuss best practice examples from within the EU and around the world and discuss the challenges for Maritime Spatial Planning in the European context.  Commissioner Maria Damanaki said: "Maritime Spatial Planning is a key tool for combining the sustainable use of marine natural resources with maritime economic activities to create further growth in maritime and coastal economies." 

A press point with Commissioner Damanaki is planned for 10h40 (Charlemagne building).