DFA Undersecretary for Multilateral Affairs and International Economic Relations Carlos D. Sorreta delivers the Philippine statement during the adoption of the agreement on marine biodiversity in areas beyond national jurisdiction. (Photo credit: New York PM)

 

UNITED NATIONS, NEW YORK, 19 June 2023 – The Philippines welcomed the historic adoption today of the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS) agreement on the conservation and sustainable use of marine biodiversity of areas beyond national jurisdiction (BBNJ Agreement). 

The Agreement was adopted by consensus, with delegates erupting into applause following the adoption.

Consistent with the provisions of UNCLOS on protecting and preserving the marine environment, the Agreement recognizes the need to address biological diversity loss and degradation of ecosystems of the ocean in a coherent and cooperative manner. 

The Agreement also underscores the need for a comprehensive global regime, under UNCLOS, to better address conservation and sustainable use of marine biodiversity of areas beyond jurisdiction.

Department of Foreign Affairs Undersecretary for Multilateral Affairs and International Economic Relations, Carlos D. Sorreta, who led the Philippine delegation, delivered a statement following the adoption of the Agreement and commended the Conference President, Ambassador Rena Lee, for shepherding the process.

“For two decades, we have participated in the process leading up to this Agreement, with high hopes and high aspirations,” Undersecretary Sorreta said.

“As an archipelagic state, and home to richness in species, the waters around the world form one single interconnected system. Activities on waters in other parts of the world impact our ecosystems, and ultimately our people. Integrated ocean governance is crucial,” he added.

“With UNCLOS as our guidepost, we approached this process with the following principles – the common heritage of mankind, fair and equitable sharing of benefits, rights and jurisdiction of adjacent coastal states, special recognition for archipelagic states, the precautionary principle, and transparency of action and support,” Undersecretary Sorreta stated.

Undersecretary Sorreta also highlighted the recognition of archipelagic states, particularly in relation to building capacities to implement the Agreement.

“The regime of capacity building and transfer of marine technology to assist developing states, particularly archipelagic states as a distinct category that need support, are most welcome,” he said.

Members of the Philippine delegation, led by Undersecretary for Multilateral Affairs and International Economic Relations Carlos D. Sorreta (rightmost), pose following the adoption of the Agreement under the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS) on the conservation and sustainable use of marine biodiversity of areas beyond jurisdiction. He is joined by Ambassador and Deputy Permanent Representative Ariel Rodelas Penaranda, Assistant Secretary Maria Angela Ponce, and Legal Adviser Azela Arumpac-Marte (Photo Credit: New York PM)

The Agreement also sets up a framework for fair and equitable sharing of benefits arising from activities with respect to marine genetic resources in areas beyond national jurisdiction. It also enables the establishment of area-based management tools, including marine protected areas, to conserve and sustainably manage habitats and species in the high seas and the international seabed area. It will also ensure that environmental impacts of activities in areas beyond national jurisdiction are assessed and taken consideration in decision-making.

António Guterres, Secretary General of the United Nations, hailed the adoption of the Agreement as demonstrating the strength of multilateralism. He said, “By acting to counter threats to our planet that go beyond national boundaries, you are demonstrating that global threats deserve global action,” he said and added that “Countries can come together, in unity, for the common good.”

The treaty will enter into force 120 days after the date of deposit of the sixtieth instrument of ratification. END