New EU policy for the Arctic adopted
The High Representative for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy and the European Commission have adopted a policy proposal that will guide the actions of the European Union in the Arctic region.
According to MANA, The European Union will step up its existing action and engagement in the region with 39 actions focusing on climate change, environmental protection, sustainable development and international cooperation.
The particular importance of research, science and innovation is reflected across these priority areas.
“While increasing human development is inevitable, it is in our hands to do it in a sustainable way,” said Karmenu Vella, EU Commissioner for Environment, Fisheries and Maritime Affairs. “We have to do this in full respect of the livelihoods of those who live in the region and by protecting its most valuable resource, the environment."
A statement from the EU said that the joint communication takes into account existing EU legislation, including the commitment to reduce greenhouse gas emissions, as well as ongoing and forthcoming EU activities and projects whilst building on the Arctic policies of the EU member states.
The proposed actions will now be discussed with the EU member states in the Council and the European Parliament.