Australia has entered an international agreement with Norway to work together to protect the oceans between the two countries.
According to the Minister for Foreign Affairs, Julie Bishop, both nations are committed to maintaining sustainable and thriving oceans.
“Today, I announce the launch of the first bilateral dialogue on oceans between Australia and Norway,” Ms Bishop said.
“Both nations are committed to maintaining sustainable and thriving oceans.
“Our cooperation is recognised under the Antarctic Treaty and will be further enhanced by the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding, bringing Australian and Norwegian Governments and businesses together.”
She said the dialogue would further strengthen the nations’ collaboration in the governance of oceans through targeted initiatives to enhance cooperation on dealing with marine litter, micro-plastics, climate-driven changes, pollution, over-exploitation and habitat destruction.
“As a country surrounded by three oceans, Australia has a fundamental interest in the legal regimes and norms that govern these oceans,” Ms Bishop said.
“Our maritime Exclusive Economic Zone is the world’s third largest and our marine resources are vital for our economy.”
She said a High-level Panel on Building a Sustainable Ocean Economy was an initiative from Norwegian Prime Minister, Erna Solberg.
The Panel is to meet for the first time in September in the margins of the United Nations General Assembly in New York.
