The European Union and Iceland today signed a new Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to enhance cooperation on fisheries and ocean affairs. The MoU establishes a framework for deeper and broader cooperation between the EU and Iceland on key priorities, including sustainable fisheries, scientific research and marine conservation. The arrangement also reinforces joint efforts in protecting marine biodiversity and supporting the energy transition of the fisheries and aquaculture sector.
The agreement, signed by Commissioner for Fisheries and Oceans, Costas Kadis, and Iceland’s Minister of Industry, Hanna Katrín Friðriksson, reaffirms the strong partnership between the EU and Iceland, built on shared values, mutual interests, and long-standing cooperation.
A key feature of the MoU is the establishment of an annual high-level dialogue, hosted alternately by the EU and Iceland, to monitor progress and advance cooperation in areas of common interest. The first meeting is scheduled to take place at the beginning of 2026.
Strengthened cooperation on Fisheries and Ocean conservation
Commissioner Kadis and Minister Friðriksson discussed various fisheries and ocean-related issues, including the need for a comprehensive agreement on shared stocks in the North-East Atlantic, sustainable blue economy as well as cetacean conservation and welfare.
Both sides emphasised the importance of international cooperation to ensure policies are guided by the best available scientific advice.
The EU and Iceland also acknowledged the importance of aligning efforts to follow-up on global biodiversity commitments, including those outlined in the Kunming-Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework, to ensure sustainable human activities and the protection of vulnerable species.
Urgent call for action on Ocean Governance
The EU and Iceland underscored the urgency of swiftly ratifying the Biodiversity Beyond National Jurisdiction (BBNJ) Agreement, a landmark treaty that will enhance the protection and sustainable use of marine biodiversity in areas beyond national jurisdiction. Both parties reaffirmed their commitment to advancing global ocean governance through effective multilateral cooperation.
Background
The EU and Iceland have a well-established partnership in fisheries and ocean affairs, with a long history of cooperation. This Memorandum of Understanding strengthens this cooperation by providing a solid framework for enhanced collaboration in areas of common interest.
The signature of this Memorandum of Understanding reinforces the EU‘s leadership in ocean diplomacy, one of the key objectives of the European Ocean Pact. By promoting effective ocean governance globally, the EU aims to safeguard the health of our oceans, protect biodiversity, and support the well-being of communities that depend on them.
More information
Memorandum of Understanding on enhancing Cooperation on Fisheries and Ocean Affairs
Quote(s)
Iceland is a historical key partner for the EU. Today we are deepening our relationship to keep fisheries sustainable and to enhance our cooperation in ocean affairs. This will help us address common challenges in the North Atlantic and the Arctic that will require significant joint efforts in the coming years.
Iceland has a long-standing relationship with the EU and we share values and interest in most areas. With this MoU we are strengthening our mutual commitment in working together in ensuring sustainable fisheries and to face the many challenges in ocean affairs in the North Atlantic both today and in the future.