UN adopts Sri Lanka's proposal for Sustainable Development of Ocean Resources 
[Tuesday, January 16, 2007 - 9.30 GMT]  

The UN General Assembly by its Resolution on Law of the Sea at the 61st Session, has approved Sri Lanka's proposal for a UN Study for developing countries to realize the economic benefits of marine resources and oceans uses, under the 1982 UN Convention on the Law of the Sea.  

The study will provide an opportunity for developing countries to identify their needs in attaining sustainable development of marine resources under their jurisdiction.  

It will highlight the nature and extent of international support that is required to address such challenges, including scientific, technological, managerial and financial needs. The study will also facilitate donor
countries and agencies in designing their programmes in the marine sector. 

In the 1980s Sri Lanka provided leadership to the conclusion of the Convention of the Law of the Sea under the stewardship of the late Mr. Shirley Amerasinghe, which has enshrined the philosophy of sustainable uses of ocean resources. The Convention has now received universal acceptance.  

However, anticipated economic and social benefits for developing countries under the Convention remain largely unfulfilled, and the exploitation of marine resources continues and the sustainable uses of the oceans have not been realized.  

Sri Lanka has pointed out that the realization of benefits under the Convention would depend on international cooperation, providing technical assistance and scientific knowledge to developing countries, as well as financing and capacity building,  

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs states the initiative by Sri Lanka in making this proposal was inspired by her cherished tradition throughout history of promoting sustainable development. King Parakramabahu (1153 - 1186 AD) who built mammoth reservoirs, demonstrated the link between development and the environment, saying 'not even a little water that comes from the rain is to flow into the ocean without being made of use to man'.

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Last Updated Date: January 16, 2007 - 9.30 GMT