Head of EU's Maritime Policy Task Force, John Burke Richardson, in Washington

PRNewswire -- June 14 -- The Head of the European Commission's Maritime Policy Task Force, John Burke Richardson, is visiting Washington June 14-16. His visit comes in the wake of the European Commission adopting a proposal which seeks to integrate Europe's maritime policy in a way that improves competitiveness, encourages growth and boosts employment while protecting the marine environment. The so- called Green Paper (Towards A Future Maritime Policy For The Union: A European Vision For The Oceans And Seas) was adopted by the European Commission on June 7, 2006, opening a consultation period that will last until the end of June 2007. It recognizes the gains that can be derived by a combined approach to the different areas of maritime policy from transport and shipping to trade and tourism.

Mr. Richardson will use his visit to Washington to seek better coordination with the United States. He will meet with Rear Admiral Joseph Nimmich, Assistant Commandant for Policy & Planning, U.S. Coast Guard, and Dr. William Brennan, Deputy Assistant Secretary for International Affairs, National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA). He will discuss several issues related to the sustainable exploitation of marine resources, and the benefits that an integrated management of these areas can produce.

Source: Delegation of the European Commission to the U.S.