In this international conference on “New chances and new responsibilities in the Arctic Region” various signatories were present and expressed their views. On behalf of the European Union, Commissioner Dr Joe Borg presents the perspective of EU on this topic. Addressing the conference Borg said that Germany has taken a close and active interest in Arctic matters for many years now, so it is appropriate that it is the city of Berlin that is hosting this important conference.
Minister of State Gloser said that the Arctic is one of the big, strategic challenges of the 21st century. He noted that this view has been shared by many, not least by Denmark and Norway, who are kindly co-hosting this event. It is fact that Arctic issues, such as the effects of climate change, the prospects for Arctic shipping and hydro-carbon exploitation, have attracted a lot of attention of late.
The increase in temperature has led to the meting of glaciers, sea ice and permafrost which in turn have caused sea levels to rise. Over a period of 30 years, the area covered by sea ice has decreased by about 8 percent, an area larger than Norway, Sweden and Denmark combined.
It is said that the melting of the ice in the Arctic combined with the ever-increasing demand for resources and the recent advances in technological innovation are three of the main driving forces behind the growing realisation that the Arctic is an area that affects all nations and, as such, is an area of common interest to us all.
Dr Borg said that EU’s Arctic strategy focuses on three main policy objectives: protecting and preserving the Arctic together with its population; promoting the sustainable use of resources; and enhancing multilateral governance in the region. He also said that the European Union is ready to intensify work with Arctic states, territories, NGOs and other stakeholders to promote high environmental standards and develop an ecosystem-based approach to managing human activity in the Arctic.
