UN high seas treaty a ‘game changer’, Singapore to ratify it as soon as possible: Vivian Balakrishnan

He said that the BBNJ agreement is a victory for the management of the global commons, noting that the ocean provides food, supplies millions of jobs, and supports livelihoods across the entire world. It also enables global trade and communications.

Dr Balakrishnan said: “The agreement is a collective game changer for our efforts to conserve and to sustainably use marine biological diversity. And it also marks a step forward for the implementation of Sustainable Development Goal 14 that mandates the conservation and sustainable use of the oceans, the seas, and marine resources for all humanity.” 

Dr Balakrishnan added the BBNJ agreement is a win for multilateralism and the UN.

Citing how Singapore’s history, people and economy are deeply intertwined with the ocean, he said Singapore relies on it for survival and prosperity. 

“At the same time, we recognise the importance of multilateral cooperation under the aegis of the United Nations in establishing and upholding the rules-based international order founded upon international law, and this is especially critical for the survival of small states everywhere,” said the minister.

“The adoption of this agreement by consensus in a time when the world is unsettled is all the more remarkable. It is a testament of what can be achieved in the United Nations when we take collective action in pursuit of a shared objective.”