A message announcing the creation of two new National Marine Parks in the Ionian and South Aegean was announced by Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis, stating among other things that he is fulfilling his promise.
The Prime Minister’s message in detail:
“The sea has always been Greece’s silent strength. It is part of who we are — it shaped our culture and history, feeds our people and cultivates our spirit. Last month, at the UN Ocean Conference on the Mediterranean coasts of France, I made a promise – to honor this unique maritime heritage and protect it for future generations. Today, I fulfill this promise with the creation of two new National Marine Parks — one in the Ionian Sea and one in the Southern Cyclades, in the unique Aegean.
These parks will be among the largest marine protected areas in the entire Mediterranean. They will allow us to achieve our goal of protecting 30% of our territorial waters by 2030, much earlier than anticipated. They will become vast sanctuaries of life beneath the waves. They will also contribute to ecosystem conservation, restoring balance and establishing a bold new model for marine protection. And perhaps most importantly, within these marine zones, the extremely destructive practice of bottom trawling will be banned.
If you have seen Sir David Attenborough’s excellent new documentary, “Ocean,” then you know why the creation of these marine parks is so important. “Ocean” is a deeply moving film, but also one that informs and inspires. It reminded me, as I hope it reminds all of us, that the sea is not just beautiful scenery. It is life itself. Sensitive. Powerful. And under threat.
Sir David’s film strengthened my commitment to do more in ocean management — to redefine our relationship with it. Not as owners. But as guardians. We will protect, yes. But we will also educate, collaborate and lead.
In cooperation with local communities, local fishermen, scientists, as well as international partners, we will make these parks examples of what is possible. In doing so, Greece can become a voice for the sea — in Europe, and beyond. Because when we protect our ocean, we protect our very future”.
