White paper on the role of the oceans in foreign and development policy
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Published under: Solberg's Government
Publisher: Ministry of Foreign Affairs
Press release | Date: 15/08/2016 | Last updated: 17/08/2016
'While the global importance of the oceans continues to increase, their sustainability is coming under threat. As a maritime nation, Norway can play a leading role in the vital efforts to safeguard the oceans through international cooperation. We will elaborate on this in a white paper to the Storting,' said Minister of Foreign Affairs Børge Brende.
There is growing international awareness that the oceans and their resources will become increasingly important. The world's population is expected to reach nearly 10 billion by 2050. The oceans will be crucial for global food security, poverty reduction, international transport, research and development, and efforts to address climate change and the environment. There is international concern about man-made environmental threats such as pollution, climate change and the depletion of resources.
'Our goal is sustainable management of marine resources on the global level. Ensuring that the oceans are healthy and productive for future generations is a key priority for Norway's foreign policy. The white paper will identify measures to support this goal,' said Mr Brende.
The development of this white paper is part of the follow-up to the Government's maritime strategy, which was launched by Prime Minister Solberg in May. The white paper will be presented to the Storting in the spring of 2017.