An “international Conference on the challenges and opportunities of a new integrated maritime policy in the European Union” was held in Brussels on 17 November. Organized by the Royal Dutch Maritime Network and the “Sea Forum” association in collaboration with the Commission, the Conference reflects the strategic priority of the Executive to put in place by 2009 a new integrated maritime policy, inaugurated with the Communication “Towards the future maritime policy for the Union: the European vision for the seas and oceans”. The first Green Paper to set out this policy is currently being prepared; it is due to be published in the spring of next year. According to the Commissioner responsible for fishing and maritime affairs Joe Borg, “we need to put in place a decision-making process able to reconcile conflicting interests in maritime and coastal areas, in order to create a climate that may encourage investments and the development of sustainable economic activities”. http://europa.eu.int/comm/fisheries/maritime/index_en.htm
