The European Commission has set its sights on developing a low-carbon maritime transportation network for the Adriatic and Ionian seas.
A healthier marine environment and a safe maritime space are two of the goals that the European Commission has wrapped up in its new strategy to transform the area.
The commissioners want to create stronger economic opportunities for the region, without causing irreparable harm to the region's waterways. The strategy, which is part of the EU’s larger Integrated Maritime Policy, is to be implemented next year. For now, the commission is looking for actions member states can take that would achieve the initiative’s goals.
"Given the European perspective of Western Balkan countries, the movement of people, goods and services through the Adriatic and Ionian seas is bound to increase,” EU Commissioner Maria Damanaki said in a statement. “Preserving the marine habitats and ensuring the sustainable development of the region will be challenging — and it is a challenge that we need to prepare for. I look forward to the input of all interested parties on this and to developing together a detailed plan for future action.”