Portugal Takes the Lead: Turning Atlantic Cooperation into Action Against Blue Crime

The Permanent Mission of Portugal, together with the Atlantic Center and the Missions of Angola, Gabon and Uruguay, organized a working lunch on “Blue Crime: Lessons from the Atlantic on maritime challenges”. The event included a presentation by Rear Admiral Nuno de Noronha Bragança, the Atlantic Center Coordinator, who highlighted the role of this Center in the context of the multiple maritime security challenges across the globe, such as illegal, unreported, and unregulated (IUU) fishing, illicit trafficking of people and narcotics, and environmental crimes.

The presentation was followed by an open and lively discussion fostered by questions from the audience. The event was attended by over 40 delegates from Member States from all regional groups. In his final remarks, the Rear Admiral pointed out that the VI Maritime Security Course, organized by the Atlantic Centre, that will take place in June 2026​, in Azores, precisely under the topic “Blue Crime: Transnational Challenges in the Atlantic” was already open for applications, encouraging all to apply. More information on this annual flagship initiative of the Atlantic Centre, bringing together auditors, delegates, speakers, and experts from around the Atlantic Basin for a one-week immersive experience, can be found HERE.