New York, USA - The African Caribbean and Pacific (ACP) group of nations and the Republic of Seychelles conjointly organised an event in the sidelines of the of the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) yesterday, to enable Small Island Developing States (SIDS) to share their experiences in harnessing the potential of the Blue Economy and further explore areas for greater development. 

President Danny Faure delivered the keynote address at the event, highlighting Seychelles' experience in gaining greater traction and tangible benefits for people through the Blue Economy. He further highlighted the importance of the fundamental role that ocean governance plays in the concept. 

"Seychelles' Blue Economy has developed an integrated approach to ocean-based sustainable development, that brings together the three pillars of sustainability: economic, environmental and social. This is informally known under corporate sustainability as 'people, planet and profits'," said the President. 

He expounded on the global significance of oceanic spaces and the key role it plays in people's lives, saying that vast expanses of maritime territory had the potential to transform SIDS into 'large ocean nations'. He stressed the importance of sustainable development that is focused on an equitable allocation of resources and the participation of citizens; informing members that Seychelles is focused on people-centred development. 

The President also highlighted the important role of civil society in championing the cause of the Blue Economy. He spoke of various youth-led non-governmental organisations in Seychelles and their important efforts to raise awareness and combat marine pollution. 

He thanked all of the ACP members for their hard work in implementing goal 14 of the sustainable development goals (to conserve and sustainably use the oceans, seas and marine resources), which was a defining factor in elaborating both the Paris Agreement and the 2030 Agenda on Sustainable Development. "Today, oceans, climate and sustainable development are firmly on the global agenda, and we should seize every opportunity to keep the momentum going," said President Faure.