Commissioner Kadis visits Cyprus to mark the 20th anniversary of the European fisheries agency

On the occasion of the 20th anniversary of the European Fisheries Control Agency (EFCA), Commissioner for Fisheries and the Oceans, Costas Kadis, will participate in a dedicated event on board the EFCA patrol vessel Ocean Sentinel in Limassol, Cyprus.

The Ocean Sentinel is the EFCA vessel currently patrolling the Mediterranean Sea, and the event will honor inspectors operating across sea basins. The Ocean Sentinel also serves as a testament to the EFCA's multi-mission capabilities as the vessel can conduct search-and-rescue operations in the eastern Mediterranean. The Commissioner's participation underscores the agency's pivotal role in enforcing the EU's Common Fisheries Policy (CFP) and combating illegal, unreported, and unregulated (IUU) fishing, while reaffirming the Union's commitment to sustainable marine governance in the Mediterranean and beyond. The event will highlight EFCA's achievements in strengthening maritime surveillance, fostering international cooperation, and ensuring compliance with EU fisheries regulations.

Commissioner Kadis will emphasise the agency's forward-looking strategic priorities, highlighting the digital transition as a cornerstone to accelerate the implementation of the revised Fisheries Control Regulation. This initiative aims to modernise monitoring systems, streamline data integration, and boost operational efficiency across EFCA's mandate. He will also highlight the agency's commitment to reinforced regional cooperation, particularly in the Mediterranean, by deepening multilateral partnerships—most notably with the General Fisheries Commission for the Mediterranean (GFCM)—to strengthen governance frameworks and promote equitable, sustainable fisheries practices.

Since its establishment in 2005 EFCA ensures compliance with EU fisheries rules through joint operations, surveillance, and global partnerships. The visit takes place as Cyprus prepares to assume the EU Council Presidency, with fisheries and oceans high on the agenda. Initiatives such as the Ocean Observation Initiative, the Islands and Coastal Communities Strategy, and the CFP evaluation will shape the bloc's blue economy priorities, all underpinned by the EU Ocean Pact's commitment to a resilient, thriving marine environment.

(For more information: Maciej Berestecki – Tel.: + 32 229-96302; Anna Wartberger – Tel: +32 2 28 20 54)