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Xiamen Bids to Host Global Ocean Treaty Secretariat
27 May
Summary
- Xiamen seeks to host the secretariat for a UN agreement on marine biodiversity.
- Experts met in Xiamen to discuss enhancing global ocean governance.
- China highlighted its commitment to ecological civilization and marine restoration.
Experts convened in Xiamen for the China Council for International Cooperation on Environment and Development Roundtable Meeting, advocating for strengthened global ocean governance via multilateral collaboration. The meeting concluded on Tuesday with approximately 150 attendees, including government officials and international partners.
The discussions, themed "Harmony Between Humanity and the Ocean: Building a Shared Future for All Life on Earth," explored research findings and policy recommendations on sustainable blue economy, biodiversity conservation, and green development.
Participants shared insights on advancing global ocean governance by promoting synergies among multilateral conventions. They also discussed accelerating the transition to a renewable blue economy and enhancing "Beautiful Bay" initiatives for economic development.
Attendees toured Wuyuan Bay and local mangrove zones, observing Xiamen's innovative marine ecological restoration practices. Guillermo Ortuno Crespo of the IUCN noted Xiamen's success in balancing population growth with ecological sustainability.
The meeting occurred as the BBNJ Agreement, concerning marine biodiversity beyond national jurisdiction, entered into force on January 17. China officially submitted a proposal on January 16 to host its permanent secretariat in Xiamen.
Xiamen pledged significant support for the secretariat, including a dedicated office building and financial aid for developing countries. Dimitri de Boer of ClientEarth praised Xiamen's suitability as a host city, citing its beauty, climate, and marine technical capabilities, alongside China's environmental commitment.
