The High-Level Conference “Strengthening the EU’s Islands and Coastal Communities” is taking place today in Paphos, with the participation of the President of the Republic, Nikos Christodoulides, the Prime Minister of Malta, Robert Abela, European Commissioners, ministers from the Republic of Cyprus and EU member states, as well as officials from European institutions.

During the conference, organized by the Cypriot Presidency of the Council of the European Union (EU) in cooperation with the European Commission, Raffaele Fito, the Commission’s Executive Vice-President for Cohesion and Reforms, will present the European Union’s strategy for islands. The Commissioner for Fisheries and Oceans, Costas Kadis, will present the European Union’s strategy for coastal communities.

A statement from the Cypriot Presidency of the Council of the EU noted that the Conference will bring together European leaders, ministers, senior policymakers, representatives of regional and island authorities, European institutions, experts, and other stakeholders, to discuss the future development of the European Union’s island and coastal regions.

The European Union’s new strategies for islands and coastal communities, which reflect the Commission’s vision for strengthening economic competitiveness and diversification, supporting a sustainable blue economy, addressing climate change, and improving resilience and connectivity. It also aims to strengthen vibrant and inclusive local communities, while promoting citizens’ right to remain in their places of residence.

The Conference will also serve as a platform for political dialogue on how European policies, funding programs, and national strategies can more effectively address the specific challenges and opportunities faced by the Union’s island and coastal regions.

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Source: CNA