Intergovernmental Conference on an international legally binding instrument under the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea on the conservation and sustainable use of marine biological diversity of areas beyond national jurisdiction

[Resumed 5^th Session; Monday, 19 June 2023]

Statement

Thank you Madam President.

I join other delegations in thanking you for your able leadership of the Conference.

Madam President,

India has always been a maritime civilization.

Our ancient scriptures and literature talk about the gifts of the oceans including marine life.

Our security and prosperity are linked to oceans.

India's ''Indo-Pacific Oceans Initiative'' contains marine resources as a key pillar.

Today’s agreement brings all of us together in ensuring conservation and sustainable use of marine biological diversity of areas beyond national jurisdiction.

The legally binding instrument is a positive step forward in the governance of marine and biological activities at the High Seas beyond National Jurisdiction.

The Agreement also reaffirms that international law, as reflected in the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea sets out the legal framework applicable to activities in the oceans.

Madam President,

The agreement, we believe, helps to address five major issues concerning marine biodiversity in areas beyond national jurisdiction.

First, protection of marine biodiversity; catalogue of species.

We all are aware that the rate of extinction of marine species is faster than that of which these were discovered. It would now be possible to quickly catalog species that have not been inventoried in the past.

Second, access to marine genetic resources.

We have long believed that the elixir of life is concealed in the ocean.

Access to marine genetic resources, as proposed in the agreement, would result in a paradigm shift in the production of innovative and affordable medicines that humanity needs.

Third, transparency in the governance of marine diversity-protection, preservation, and its exploitation.

The agreement provides a hope that that activities in the BBNJ are carried out in a sustainable and responsible way, ensuring that these vast resources are accessible for future generations.

Fourth, capacity building and sharing of marine technology.

We hope the capacities of developing countries will be enhanced and access to marine technologies will ease with this agreement.

Lastly, research opportunities for experts in exploration of marine biodiversity.

We see significant possibilities for bilateral and multilateral cooperation in deep sea exploration, technology development, and experience exchange.

Madam President,

India considers the entire world as one large, interconnected family.

This enduring philosophy of ‘Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam’ has guided our constant interaction and exchange of thoughts with the outside world.

We welcome the adoption of the agreement and hope that the world will reap the benefits equitably in the years to come.

Thank you.

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