The atmosphere in Brest is electric. The Brest Expo, lightened up in blue and white for the occasion, is immersed in a non-stop buzz of voices in the background. The European Maritime community has gathered for two days in this French coastal city, whose maritime heritage is woven into its history.

'Salted water runs in our veins' said the French – and Breton - Ambassador for the Poles and Oceans Olivier Poivre d'Arvor, during the closing session.

Located at the tip of Brittany, between land and sea, the city lies on the major international maritime routes of the Atlantic coast. The location couldn't be more appropriate to assess progresses and discuss the challenges ahead for our ocean economy.

More than 1600 participants took part in the European Maritime Day (EMD). EU Commissioner for Environment, Oceans and Fisheries, Virginijus Sinkevičius opened the event with a vibrant call for collaboration:

If we combine our efforts, we can bring a better life for our coastal communities in Brittany, France and across Europe. Let’s harness the power of collaboration and innovation for a prosperous future.

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