In a statement released late Saturday night by his spokesperson, the UN chief hailed the agreement as “a victory for multilateralism and for global efforts to counter the destructive trends facing ocean health, now and for generations to come.”
The agreement was reached at UN Headquarters in New York, where difficult negotiations on the draft treaty have been ongoing for the past two weeks.
The result of negotiations mediated by the UN that started in 2004 is the agreement achieved by participants in the International Conference on Marine Biodiversity of Areas Beyond National Jurisdiction, or BBNJ for short.
The legislative structure, which is already known as the “High Seas Treaty,” would safeguard 30% of the world’s seas, increase funding for marine conservation, and regulate access to and use of marine genetic resources.
The pact, according to Mr. Guterres’ Spokesman, is essential for solving the triple global challenges of pollution, biodiversity loss, and climate change.
“It is also vital for achieving ocean-related goals and targets of the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development, and the Kunming-Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework,” said the statement, referring to the so-called ‘30×30’ pledge to protect a third of the world’s biodiversity – on land and sea – by 2030 made by a historic UN conference in Montreal this past December.
The Secretary-General praised all parties for their ambition, adaptability, and perseverance and noted that the BBNJ decision builds on the legacy of the UN Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS). He also hailed Singaporean Ambassador Rena Lee for her leadership and commitment.
“Ladies and gentlemen, the ship has reached the shore,” Ms. Lee said last night, announcing the agreement to an extended standing ovation in the meeting room. Delegations will reconvene later to formally adopt the text.
The Secretary-General also acknowledged the crucial support provided by non-governmental organizations, civil society, academic institutions, and the scientific community, according to a statement made by the UN Spokesman.
“He looks forward to continuing working with all parties to secure a healthier, more resilient, and more productive ocean, benefiting current and future generations,” the statement concluded.
Csaba Krösi, the head of the 77th session of the UN General Assembly, responded on Twitter and praised Ms. Lee and the delegates for coming to an agreement on a worldwide legal framework for the high seas.
“This is a massive success for multilateralism. An example of the transformation our world needs and the people we serve demand,” he added.
