EU and Iceland strengthen ocean cooperation

The agreement sets out a broad framework to more closely collaborate on sustainable fisheries management, scientific research, marine conservation and the energy transition within the fisheries and aquaculture sectors.

Signed by EU Commissioner for Fisheries and Oceans, Costas Kadis, and Iceland’s Minister of Industry, Hanna Katrín Friðriksson, the MoU reinforces a long-standing partnership grounded in shared values and mutual interests.

A central feature of the agreement is the creation of an annual high-level dialogue, hosted alternately by the EU and Iceland. The forum will track progress and promote further cooperation with the first meeting scheduled for early 2026.

The MoU also strengthens commitments on the conservation of shared fish stocks in the North-East Atlantic, the promotion of a sustainable blue economy and the protection and welfare of marine mammals.

Both parties acknowledged the need for policies rooted in robust scientific evidence and committed to aligning with global biodiversity targets, including those outlined in the Kunming-Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework.

In a joint call for action, the two also urged the swift ratification of the Biodiversity Beyond National Jurisdiction Agreement, a treaty critical for protecting marine life in international waters.