FAMAGUSTA GAZETTE – President Nikos Christodoulides emphasized Cyprus’ support for a temporary halt on deep-sea mining activities as a precautionary measure until a robust regulatory framework is in place.
Speaking at the plenary session of the Conference on Oceans, he underscored the importance of scientific research accompanying any maritime activities to ensure they pose no threat to the marine environment.
Christodoulides noted that Cyprus, a small island nation surrounded by the Mediterranean Sea, recognizes the vital connection between ocean health and the well-being, security, and progress of its people. He also addressed an event hosted by the European Commission, initiated by Fisheries and Oceans Commissioner Costas Kadis.
The president warned that the state of the world’s oceans is deteriorating due to climate change, pollution, and overexploitation. He stressed that Cyprus is witnessing these challenges firsthand through rising sea levels, extreme weather events, coastal erosion, and warming waters.
He highlighted the Ocean Pact as a strategic initiative aimed at reversing these trends through collective action among member states, regional organizations, and key stakeholders.