Rabat – Morocco, alongside Spain, and Angola, spearheaded last week a virtual meeting aiming to boost cooperation between 38 coastal Atlantic countries.
The meeting is the second of its kind to be held for the Partnership for Atlantic Cooperation.
Led by Ambassador Jessye Lapenn, the gathering on February 15, 2024, reflected a shared dedication to the sustainable use and conservation of the Atlantic Ocean.
“The Partnership will continue to advance scientific cooperation by sharing information and building capacity,” the US Department of State said in a media note.
The meeting marked a significant step forward as members collectively pledged to intensify efforts in key areas such as marine spatial planning, scientific capacity building, and collaborative workshops.
“The senior officials agreed to support the development of marine spatial plans as a critical tool for sustainable economic and social development in Atlantic coastal states, and to foster comprehensive Atlantic Ocean data collection, sharing, and analysis,” the statement reads.
Portugal, the United States, and other partners will lead initiatives on scientific capacity building and exchange, the statement explains.
During the meeting, attendees agreed to hold workshops throughout 2024 to address a number of pressing issues including marine plastic pollution, abandoned fishing gear, food security, and innovative financing mechanisms for marine resource conservation.
Central to the Partnership’s agenda is the promotion of scientific cooperation and data sharing. Officials reiterated their support for the development of marine spatial plans, recognizing them as essential tools for sustainable development.
In addition, officials pledged to enhance comprehensive data collection, sharing, and analysis, paving the way for research-based decision-making.
The Partnership, established on shared principles outlined in the Declaration on Atlantic Cooperation, continues to grow in scope and influence, added the statement. Welcoming several new members, it now comprises 38 countries spanning Africa, the Americas, Europe, and the Caribbean.
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