Key Takeaways
- Canada endorsed the Annual Joint Leaders’ Communiqué on Ocean-Climate during UNGA.
- Halifax will host the 12th Our Ocean Conference on May 10–11, 2027.
- Canada announced more than C$24 million for High Seas Treaty implementation and marine biodiversity protection.
Canada Endorses Ocean-Climate Communiqué
Prime Minister Mark Carney announced Canada’s endorsement of the Annual Joint Leaders’ Communiqué on Ocean-Climate during Canada’s participation in UNGA.
The communiqué reflects international efforts to coordinate action on interconnected challenges affecting oceans and the climate. Canada said the initiative supports work toward a sustainable ocean economy and stronger international cooperation.
Halifax to Host Our Ocean Conference in 2027
Canada will host the 12th Our Ocean Conference in Halifax on May 10 and 11, 2027.
The government says Canada will work with international partners during the conference to accelerate commitments, strengthen ocean governance and turn international goals into practical results.
The conference will also include a youth summit and will be chaired by Canada’s new Ocean Envoy, Diana Fox Carney.
More Than $24 Million for High Seas Treaty
Canada also announced that it has ratified the Agreement on Marine Biological Diversity of Areas beyond National Jurisdiction, commonly known as the High Seas Treaty.
The ratification is backed by more than $24 million to support implementation of the treaty and help protect and sustainably manage marine biodiversity in international waters.
The treaty is part of Canada's broader efforts to strengthen ocean governance and conservation beyond national jurisdictions.
Canada Expands Global Ocean Observation Efforts
The ocean-climate announcement follows Canada's participation in the OceanEye International Alliance, which focuses on strengthening global ocean observation.
Canada announced $82 million to support ocean observation and the Global Ocean Observing System. The announcement was made at an OceanEye International Alliance event co-hosted with European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen.
Canada says stronger ocean monitoring can support climate forecasting, maritime safety, sustainable ocean economies and ecosystem protection.
Focus on International Ocean Cooperation
The announcements at UNGA connect Canada's ocean observation efforts with its upcoming role as host of the Our Ocean Conference.
Through the 2027 conference, Canada plans to work with global partners on ocean governance, sustainable ocean economies and practical commitments to address challenges facing oceans and climate.
The Halifax conference will therefore bring together the country's international ocean priorities with a broader effort to strengthen cooperation on marine conservation, observation and climate-related challenges.