Portugal Reaffirms Commitment to Ocean Governance and the Law of the Sea
At the debate on Oceans and Law of the Sea, Portugal reiterated its strong commitment to the UNCLOS, calling it the “Constitution of the Oceans” and a pillar of global ocean governance. As a nation deeply connected to the sea, Portugal stressed that the ocean is not just a resource but a foundation for climate regulation, biodiversity, food security, and sustainable development.
Highlighting its long-standing leadership, Portugal noted its role in championing SDG 14, co-hosting the Second UN Ocean Conference, being among the first to ratify the BBNJ Agreement, protecting 27% of its marine area, and imposing a moratorium on deep-seabed mining within national jurisdiction.
Portugal welcomed the annual resolution on oceans as an opportunity to strengthen cooperation, calling for greater recognition of climate impacts, updates reflecting the Nice Ocean Conference, and support for universal implementation of the BBNJ Agreement. Reaffirming the importance of consensus, Portugal supported Brazil’s amendment related to the climate meetings in Belém.
The statement praised Singapore’s leadership and DOALOS’ support, and welcomed progress toward the entry into force of the BBNJ Agreement, emphasizing Portugal’s continued support through initiatives such as the UN–Portugal Ocean Fellowship.
Portugal also looked forward to the Fourth UN Ocean Conference in Chile and the Republic of Korea, pledging to help deliver strong, science-based outcomes that advance SDG 14 and the global ocean agenda.
