President Boric Signs Agreement for Marine Biodiversity Conservation

This agreement marks a crucial milestone in the conservation of marine biodiversity beyond national jurisdictions.

In a momentous event, the Minister of Foreign Affairs, Alberto van Klaveren, joined the President of the Republic, Gabriel Boric, in signing the Agreement on the Conservation and Sustainable Use of Marine Biodiversity Beyond National Jurisdictions (BBNJ). 

The Minister of the Environment, Maisa Rojas, also participated in this historic signing ceremony, which took place at the United Nations General Assembly in New York, marking the culmination of a decade of intensive negotiations.

Chile as a stakeholder in the agreement for the conservation of marine biodiversity

During the negotiation process, Chile played an active role in promoting ambitious objectives and coordinating effectively with regional and sectoral bodies related to the high seas. 

"We believe this treaty is a crucial achievement for international law and for the protection of the ocean. Among other reasons, without BBNJ it would be almost impossible to meet the 30x30 target of protecting at least 30% of all terrestrial and marine ecosystems by 2030," said Minister van Klaveren.

"Today, thanks to President Boric's signature, we join the international community in promoting this treaty and call on all countries to commit to its effective implementation," added Minister Rojas.

The signing of this international agreement demonstrates Chile's commitment to the preservation of our marine ecosystems and the responsible management of the oceans.

Towards global ratification of the BBNJ Agreement

Ratification by 60 nations is required in order for the BBNJ to enter into force. Many countries, including Small Island Developing States and the European Union, have shown their support for this to happen as soon as possible.

Protecting an underwater treasure: The Nazca Ridge

Minister van Klaveren emphasized the opportunity that the BBNJ Agreement represents for Chile in protecting key areas of the ocean, such as the Nazca Ridge, which lies off the South American coast and hosts one of the highest levels of endemism in the world. 

This area plays a fundamental role in the reproduction of species in the South Pacific.

Chile as host of the BBNJ Secretariat 

Consistent with Chile's foreign policy, which prioritizes ocean conservation, the country submitted a proposal to host the BBNJ Secretariat in Valparaiso. 

This would streamline the implementation of the agreement and ensure that the management of the new maritime conservation structures is based in the Global South.

Promoting the adoption of the BBNJ Agreement

The High-Level event "High Ambition for the High Seas," in which the Minister of Foreign Affairs participated, intended to highlight the importance and cross-cutting nature of the BBNJ Agreement. 

In addition, the aim was to reach a declaration that would encourage its early adoption. 

The signing of this treaty represents a firm commitment to the conservation of marine biodiversity and the protection of our oceans at a global level.