Agreement on fisheries is “a milestone in EU-UK relations” - Hoofdinhoud

In the opinion of the Portuguese Minister of Maritime Affairs, the provisional agreement reached with the United Kingdom during the Portuguese Presidency of the Council of the European Union on fishing opportunities up to the end of 2021 “represents a milestone in relations” between London and the 27.

Ricardo Serrão Santos i pointed out that “an excellent precedent for future negotiations with the United Kingdom on fishing opportunities” has been set and added that the provisional agreement provides “legal clarity and stability for fishermen, while at the same time ensuring that marine resources will continue to be used sustainably”.

At the informal video conference of Fisheries Ministers, chaired by the Minister of Maritime Affairs from the headquarters of the Portuguese Presidency of the Council of the EU i, the Member States expressed their support for the provisional agreement negotiated by the European Commission, considering the conditions set for the EU and UK fishing fleets to be fair. The Ministers also said that the agreement ensured continued respect for the social, environmental and economic pillars of the Common Fisheries Policy.

This agreement covers the fishing opportunities for 75 species of fish in 2021, extending to 2022 for some deep-sea stocks. The result of the negotiations, which began in January, includes rules and conditions applicable to both fleets and establishes the basis for closer cooperation between the EU and the UK in the fisheries area.

The Common Fisheries Policy encompasses socioeconomic aspects, decision-making based on the best scientific opinions available, a level playing field and respect for international obligations.