Vivian Balakrishnan on Singapore’s role in UN high seas treaty

There is an urgent need for collective action to address the urgent threats confronting the oceans, including the issues of climate change and biodiversity loss, said Foreign Affairs Minister Vivian Balakrishnan. The landmark Treaty on Conservation and Sustainable Use of Marine Biodiversity of Areas Beyond National Jurisdiction is thus a historic achievement and critical boost for global efforts to protect the marine environment, he said. Replying to an MP’s questions in Parliament on Tuesday (Mar 21), Dr Balakrishnan said the treaty will augment access to deep sea samples for Singapore’s Institutes of Higher Learning and maritime companies, thereby creating new opportunities for its R&D sector. Scientists working with repositories will find it easier to obtain information and access samples of marine organisms for their research. In the immediate term, Singapore can work with other countries and regional and international organisations towards the early ratification and effective implementation of the treaty. In the longer term, it can support capacity-building efforts for developing countries by sharing its experience and expertise. Singaporeans can also contribute to combating climate change and protecting their own environment and oceans by living sustainably and practising zero-waste lifestyles. Dr Balakrishnan said Singapore is privileged and honoured to have been able to play a part in ensuring the conservation and sustainable use of the oceans, and will continue to support this crucial endeavour.