10th EUSAIR Annual Forum

Within the framework of the 10th EUSAIR FORUM, the Session of Pillar 1, Sustainable Blue Economy, which Greece and Montenegro are commonly coordinate, was successfully held, with a high attendance from the participants of the FORUM. 

Pillar 1 focuses on three Topics, (1) to strengthen blue and green technologies, by promoting synergies & networking of regional relevant and useful research, development & innovation activities, (2), to strengthen fisheries and aquaculture, through networking policy practices, business practices, research findings and other important assets of the region, and, (3) to support maritime and marine governance and services, to make better use of the skills that are available, and equip people with new skills that are needed. 

A significant percentage of the population of Adriatic-Ionian Region’s coastal communities belong to the most vulnerable social groups, and often are fisheries’ dependent, with fisheries and aquaculture having traditionally a major social and cultural impact. The actions and projects led by EUSAIR's Blue Sustainable Economy priorities not only contribute to the economic development of the Region but also alleviate pressure on natural resources. 

Supporting the coastal and inland communities of the Adriatic-Ionian through the sustainable blue economy is key to the development and retention of the local population in their place. With the smart use of natural resources such as lagoons and lakes, new jobs and added value are created for local communities. At the same time, upgrading the blue skills of residents enhances sustainable development and social cohesion. 

We invest in people and the environment, building a better future for the region together. 

During the first part of the session, which was moderated by Dr. Michael Chatziefstathiou (Coordinator of Pillar 1), Prof. Drosos Koutsoubas (Professor of Marine Biology, Dean of the School of Environment, University of the Aegean, Greece) presented how the Blue Economy and Blue Carriers upskilling can contribute to the Sustainable Development Goals and the EU’s Blue-Growth Strategy Initiatives, Mr. Rezart Kapedani (Deputy Team Leader, SANE 27 Project, Albania), presented ways to improve Local Communities near the coastal lagoons though sustainable tourism and spatial planning, and, Mr. Stavros Kalognomos (Balkan & Black Sea Commission, Conference of Peripheral Maritime Regions, Belgium) presented the Skills needed to be acquired by the local population to be successful candidates for work in future professions on small ports, marinas, port services, and coastal short shipping. 

During the second part of the session a presentation was given by Mr. Arturo Incerti (European Commission, DG MARE) on the current European Commission’s initiatives to boost Blue Economy, Mr. Georgios Emmanouil (European Commission, DG REGIO) talked about the expected benefits from the development of a Regional Skills Partnership for a Sustainable Blue Economy in EUSAIR region, and, Dr. Michael Chatziefstathiou (Coordinator of Pillar 1), gave an update on the steps made until now towards the drafting and signing of a Blue Skills Pact in EUSAIR between the interested stakeholders. This partnership promotes joint actions in order to meet the skills needs of the entire workforce of the Adriatic - Ionian blue sustainable economy ecosystem, ensuring that any new skills are embedded in the overall policy and curricula for vocational education and training. 

A vivid discussion between the participants and the experts followed the presentations of each part of the session, showing their interest on the topic.