At the launch of European Ocean Day 2026 in Brussels, Cyprus' Deputy Minister of Shipping Marina Hadjimichael represented President Nikos Christodoulides. During her address, Hadjimichael emphasized the significance of the European Ocean Pact, marking a pivotal moment in the shaping of European maritime policy. This pact unifies various EU policies related to oceans, such as environmental, industrial, research, transportation, and security issues.

Hadjimichael noted that for the first time, all EU policies related to the oceans are gathered in a single strategic framework. This integration is crucial for addressing the multifaceted challenges faced by oceans, which include environmental degradation, industrial activities, and issues of maritime security. The Deputy Minister highlighted the necessity for effective governance of ocean resources, which requires close coordination between institutions, governments, industry, the scientific community, and investors, along with strong cooperation with coastal communities.

Furthermore, she underscored the direct connection between oceans and critical global issues such as climate change, economic stability, and security. As discussions around the European Ocean Pact continue, the insights shared by Cyprus may have far-reaching implications for how European maritime policies are formulated and implemented, contributing to a more sustainable future for ocean governance in Europe.