Europêche has welcomed the nomination of Costas Kadis as the new Commissioner-designate for Fisheries and Oceans.
‘It is our hope that Mr. Kadis will restore the balance between biodiversity conservation, the sustainable use of natural resources, and food security – an equilibrium that was regrettably lacking in the previous legislative term. With his extensive experience in nature, agriculture, and fisheries, we believe he is well-equipped to address the realities faced by our sector and coastal communities,’ said Europêche president Javier Garat, commenting that Europêche looks forward to work closely with Mr. Kadis to ensure the industry remains sustainable, competitive, and resilient.
‘Europêche is particularly keen to collaborate on ensuring a level playing field for the entire fisheries chain, safeguarding EU’s food sovereignty and providing vital support to coastal communities across the Union,’ he said.
Europêche has also welcomed the mandate given to the Executive Vice-President-Designate for Cohesion and Reforms, tasked with helping to ensure that fisheries become more resilient, sustainable and competitive in the global market.
‘This represents a significant step toward elevating fisheries and food production on the Commission’s agenda, as advocated by the sector, with a dedicated focus at the Vice-Presidency level,’ Javier Garat said.
‘As outlined in the mandate for the Commissioner-Designate for Agriculture and Food, we need a Fisheries Commissioner who will work closely with fellow College Members to develop a cohesive ‘vision for food’, promote trade reciprocity, and advance a strategy for generational renewal within the sector.’
A meeting with Executive Vice-President Maroš Šefčovič has been confirmed for 25th September. Both parties will address urgent fisheries matters during a crucial political transition period, as the EU prepares for the next European Commission.
‘Europêche appreciates Vice-President Šefčovič’s availability to meet during such busy and transitional political times, recognising his continued leadership in the sustainability, competitiveness and resilience of Europe’s fisheries sector,’ said Europêche managing director Daniel Voces.
‘While the new College of Commissioners is expected to take office by 1st December, this meeting will ensure that pressing fisheries issues continue to receive the political attention they deserve. Europêche remains committed to fostering constructive dialogue and close collaboration with the EU executive to safeguard the future of the fishing sector.’
He outlined a number of critical challenges that Europêche is keen to discuss as priority issues, including the need for a high-level dialogue on fisheries management and ocean-related cooperation with Norway: establishing a sustainable partnership and trade arrangements to protect shared resources and the interests of the EU fleet.
Also due for discussion are the EU position for the ICCAT (International Commission for the Conservation of Atlantic Tunas) Annual Meeting 2024 – creating a level playing field for the European fleet, fighting IUU fishing to protect EU consumers and ensuring decisions are based upon best available science, as well as fishing opportunities for 2025 and securing sustainable and fair quota allocations in the Atlantic, Baltic and Mediterranean seas.
