Madam President,
Norway has had the honour of coordinating the informal consultations on draft resolution A/80/L.17 on sustainable fisheries. I am pleased to introduce the text on behalf of its co-sponsors.
The resolution recognizes the significant contribution of sustainable fisheries and aquaculture to food security and nutrition, income, wealth and poverty alleviation for present and future generations and reflects the most recent advances relevant for fisheries.
We are particularly pleased to see strengthened text on the role of science in achieving sustainable fisheries in this year’s resolution. Furthermore, this year’s resolution invites States and regional economic integration organizations to consider not only the implications of the BBNJ Agreement for sustainable fisheries but also the role of regional fisheries management organisations and arrangements in this respect. These timely and highly important questions will also be the topic for the 2026 ICSP.
Norway looks forward to the opportunity to discussing the interface between regional fisheries management organisations and the BBNJ Agreement, and how we can ensure, in the best possible manner, the fulfilment of their respective mandates.
Similarly, we look forward to the two-day workshop to be convened in July next year addressing the impacts of bottom fishing on vulnerable marine ecosystems and the long-term sustainability of deep-sea fish stocks.
Fisheries provide a vital source of food, employment, trade and economic well-being for people throughout the world. Achieving sustainable fisheries, combating illegal, unreported and unregulated fishing, addressing fishing overcapacity, ensuring safety at sea and decent working conditions in the fisheries sector, and improving sub-regional and regional cooperation are all necessary means to meet the sustainable development
goals.
Norway would like to thank all delegations for engaging so constructively during this process and for ensuring that the present resolution is a consensual product based on amicable and substantive discussions between all delegates.
Madam President,
Norway is pleased to also join others in co-sponsoring the draft resolution on “Oceans and the law of the sea”. We again thank Ms. Natalie Morris Sharma of Singapore for her effective leadership during the consultations.
The informal consultations have over time moved in direction of more political exchanges, rather than the technical and legal exchange which long have set these consultations apart. We wish to extend our deep gratitude to Morris-Sharma for reminding us and fellow delegations of the importance of the fundamental parameters of the informal consultations.
Negotiating sensitive topics on a consensus basis requires substantive and meaningful exchanges based on good-faith negotiations between delegations. When engaged in this process compromises are often found across positions that seem irreconcilable, giving the process substantive value. However, in times of uncertainty, where fundamentals are questioned, we must also remind ourselves of the inherent value of this process in and of itself. Norway remains committed to these parameters of the informal consultations.
Madam President,
The International Court of Justice rendered its advisory opinion on Obligations of States in respect of Climate Change in July this year. The number of states participating in the proceedings, and the advisory opinion itself, are a testament to the relevance and competence of the Court.
Norway is pleased to see the clear reference to the Advisory Opinion in the resolution on Oceans and law of the sea, further underscoring the clear link between responding to the threat of climate change and sustainable ocean management.
Furthermore, Norway welcomes the references to the important negotiations taking place at the International Seabed Authority, the progress made, and the decisions taken by the Council. Norway encourages the Authority to continue its work on the draft regulations as a matter of priority and is committed to doing its part in this endeavor.
Lastly, Norway welcomes the new language in the resolution emphasizing the important duty of flag States to effectively exercise their jurisdiction and control over ships flying their flag.
Madam President,
I would also like to highlight the up-coming entry into force of the Agreement under UNCLOS on the Conservation and Sustainable Use of Marine Biological Diversity of Areas beyond National Jurisdiction on the 17th of January 2026. The BBNJ Agreement constitutes the greatest development in ocean management since the adoption of UNCLOS. It shows that the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea can adapt to evolving challenges, and demonstrates the continuing strength and promise of multilateralism. Norway ratified the Agreement ahead of the UN Ocean Conference in June this year. We urge all States to become party to this Agreement.
Norway is pleased to co-sponsor the draft resolution “Oceans and the law of the sea: Agreement under the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea on the Conservation and Sustainable Use of Marine Biological Diversity of Areas beyond National Jurisdiction”.
The Preparatory Commission is undertaking important work to prepare for the first Conference of the Parties to be held within one year after the entry into force of the Agreement. We welcome that the draft resolution requests the Secretary-General to convene the first Conference of the Parties within this timeframe.
Lastly, we support and believe it is timely that the BBNJ Agreement is included as a sub-item in the provisional agenda under the item “Oceans and the law of the sea” and that informal consultations are held.
Madam President,
Norway is pleased to co-sponsor the draft resolution “2028 United Nations Conference to Support the Implementation of Sustainable Development Statement Norway. General Assembly debate December 8 2025. Oceans and law of the sea. Goal 14: Conserve and sustainably use the oceans, seas and marine resources for sustainable development”. Norway appreciates that the Governments of Chile and the Republic of Korea will co-host the 2028 conference and the commitment to actively involve Governments, civil
society, the private sector, the United Nations system and other actors in driving progress and supporting the implementation of Sustainable Development Goal 14.
I thank you.