The European Union and Iceland have reinforced cooperation on fisheries and ocean policy after a high-level meeting in Reykjavik on 17 April.
The talks focused on sustainable fisheries, Arctic cooperation and the blue economy. Both sides confirmed a shared aim to strengthen stock management and protect marine resources.
Focus on fisheries and ocean governance
EU Commissioner for Fisheries and Oceans Costas Kadis met Iceland’s Minister of Industries Hanna Katrín Friðriksson. They reviewed progress under a cooperation agreement signed in July 2025.
Discussions centred on fisheries management, including stock conservation and quota frameworks. The two sides also stressed stronger engagement in regional fisheries bodies and global ocean governance.
Kadis said both partners face similar challenges, including climate change and pressure on fish stocks. He said closer cooperation is needed to ensure sustainable seas and stable conditions for the sector.
Long-standing partnership
The EU and Iceland have worked together on fisheries since 1993. The current agreement builds on that cooperation and expands work on science, sustainability and energy transition in fishing.
The dialogue also covered Arctic issues and broader regional challenges in the North-East Atlantic.
Visit to fishing communities
During the visit, Kadis travelled to Grindavík, a coastal town hit by volcanic activity since 2023. He met local fishers and visited the Iceland Ocean Cluster, which focuses on innovation in the blue economy.
Both sides said the meeting marks a step forward in building resilient fisheries and coastal communities.