Lithuania takes over the chairmanship of the Baltic Marine Environment Protection Commission HELCOM for two years
On June 27, representatives from the Ministry of the Environment of the Republic of Lithuania assumed the HELCOM chairmanship from their Latvian counterparts. The ceremony, held at the Lithuanian-Latvian border, marked the beginning of Lithuania's chairmanship of the Baltic Marine Environment Protection Commission, effective from July 1 until June 30, 2026.
"It is a significant responsibility for Lithuania to chair the Baltic Marine Environment Protection Commission during such a turbulent geopolitical period. The Baltic Sea is a shared treasure with other democratic countries, and we must protect it diligently. This year, representatives from the Lithuanian non-governmental sector have begun a walk around the Baltic Sea to promote its cleanliness. Together with all citizens, we will take actions for the future of this sea under our joint presidency," emphasized the Minister of the Environment, Simonas Gentvilas.
According to HELCOM Executive Secretary Rudiger Strempel, the Baltic Sea is a source of prosperity and an element of identity for the entire region. However, it is also an endangered ecosystem suffering from human activities. "For fifty years, HELCOM has been working to protect our region's seas. As shown by HELCOM's latest holistic assessment of the Baltic Sea, much work has been accomplished, but much remains to be done. Following Latvia's successful HELCOM Chairmanship, the Commission's Secretariat looks forward to continuing this work under the Lithuanian Chairmanship," said Rudiger Strempel.
"We are pleased with Latvia's achievements during the HELCOM Chairmanship and would like to thank our colleagues and everyone involved for their work. We are pleased to hand over the Chairmanship to Lithuania, underlining our long-term commitment to the security and sustainable development of the Baltic Sea. Let our joint work on the implementation of the Action Plan, including strong biodiversity conservation measures in the Baltic Sea, continue," says Minister of Environmental Protection and Regional Development Inga Bērziņa.
Addressing the priorities of the Lithuanian Presidency, Vitalijus Auglys, Head of the Pollution Prevention Policy Group of the Ministry of the Environment and incoming HELCOM Chair, noted that geopolitical challenges in the Baltic region and political tensions between countries could affect environmental protection activities and maritime safety. Therefore, strengthening HELCOM's role in the context of these challenges is a key priority for the Lithuanian Presidency.
Another priority area is balancing environmental protection with the blue economy. A sustainable blue economy can address current shortcomings in the management of marine, coastal, and aquatic ecosystems and become a crucial component in meeting economic, social, and environmental needs.
"An economy based on clean technologies, renewable energies, and a circular economy offers significant benefits for current and future generations while preserving a clean environment. Therefore, the Lithuanian Presidency will strengthen HELCOM's role in maintaining and developing the economic potential of the Baltic Sea Region, while reinforcing environmental policies that promote the sustainable use of marine resources," said Mr. Auglys. Strengthening dialogue with the public and involving them in decision-making will also be a major focus.
"As part of HELCOM's public diplomacy and stakeholder engagement activities, we will promote an inclusive, transparent, and participatory approach to environmental management and protection in the Baltic Sea Region. By engaging diverse stakeholders, fostering partnerships, and empowering communities, we will strengthen our collective efforts to protect and sustainably manage the marine environment of the Baltic Sea for present and future generations," added Mr. Auglys.
The ceremonial handover of the HELCOM Chairmanship Key was conducted by outgoing HELCOM Chairperson Evija Šmitė, Deputy Director General of the Latvian State Environmental Protection Service and Director of the Fisheries Control Department. She noted the continuity of priorities between both Chairmanships.
"Geopolitical challenges have not hindered HELCOM from working efficiently and effectively to achieve its core objectives in protecting the Baltic Sea environment. The work has continued, and several important results have been achieved, such as the renewal of HELCOM's working structure and the finalization and publication of the Third Holistic Assessment of the Baltic Sea," summarized Evija Šmitė.
After the symbolic key handover ceremony, the delegation visited the Būtingė Oil Terminal of AB ORLEN Lietuva. They were introduced to the company's activities, preventive measures to ensure safe operations, and state-of-the-art technologies, including an oil leak detection system. The company uses equipment that meets the highest standards, with a strong emphasis on maintenance. It also implements an environmental monitoring program, regularly assessing air emissions, groundwater impact, and other studies, which were presented to the delegation.
Thethe Baltic Marine Environment Protection Commission, also known as the Helsinki Commission or HELCOM, was established to implement the 1974 Convention for the Protection of the Marine Environment of the Baltic Sea (the Helsinki Convention), to which 10 countries are signatories. The Commission is chaired by each Party to the Convention in turn, in alphabetical order by name, for two years. From July 1, the Commission will be led by Vitalijus Auglys, Head of the Pollution Prevention Policy Group of the Ministry of the Environment. Tomas Želvys, Senior Adviser on Water and Seabed Issues in the Pollution Prevention Policy Group of the Ministry of the Environment, has been elected HELCOM Vice-Chair.
Last updated: 17-07-2024
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