EU marks first Maritime Day

The EU marked the first EU Maritime Day, created on the initiative of Maltese Commissioner Joe Borg to highlight the importance of the oceans and seas to Europe.

During a ceremony held at the European Parliament on Tuesday, EP President Hans-Gert Pottering, Council President Janez Jansa and Commission President Jose Manuel Barroso signed European Maritime Day into existence.

The Day will raise awareness of seafaring heritage and identity throughout the EU, and emphasise the economic role of Europe's many coastal regions.

Commissioner Joe Borg, responsible for Fisheries and Maritime Affairs attended the ceremony.