WORKING GROUPS

Ensuring a rational coexistence of human activities in coastal and maritime areas is an important aspect for sustainable blue growth. Integrated Coastal Zone Management and Maritime Spatial Planning are important tools which aim to facilitate such coexistence. In this instance, coastal Regions are naturally front-line players.

The question of the relevance and boundaries of any new European action was recently raised. Proposals are expected from the European Commission.

The CPMR is continuing to consider the issues and it has emphasised, in current discussions, that it would be interested in a European initiative which would look at both the MSP and the ICZM, while leaving Member States and Regions room to establish links between these two areas. The aim of such an initiative would be to continue stimulating the action of Member States and Regions and to provide transnational coordination for their activities. The primordial role played in this respect by the Regions makes it necessary to involve them closely in any European initiatives, including those financed by the EMFF.