Experts and scholars at the Global Conference on Ocean Cooperation and Development reached a consensus on Oct 24 to promote sustainable ocean development in Qingdao, Shandong province. [Photo provided to chinadaily.com.cn]

Experts and scholars pledged to strengthen cooperation in ocean-related education and scientific research, aiming to address global challenges and commit to a maritime community with a shared future at a high-level event in Qingdao, Shandong province, on Oct 24.

Over 400 participants from marine-focused universities, research institutions and international organizations representing 40 countries and regions attended the Global Conference on Ocean Cooperation and Development.

The event was organized by the Ocean University of China, which celebrated its 100th anniversary on Oct 25.

Tian Hui, chair of the Ocean University of China Council, highlighted the pivotal role that ocean sciences education and research play in addressing global challenges such as security instability, uneven development and environmental degradation.

He emphasized the need for greater efforts in advancing marine education, tackling key frontier issues and accelerating the growth of the ocean economy to foster global sustainable development.

Manuel Barange, assistant director-general and director of the Fisheries and Aquaculture division of the Food and Agriculture Organization, spoke about FAO's Blue Transformation initiative, which envisions a sustainable future for aquatic food systems.

He noted that one of the key objectives is to intensify and expand sustainable aquaculture to meet the global demand for aquatic foods.

During the event, participants reached an agreement, jointly launching the Qingdao Consensus on Sustainable Development of Future Ocean 2024. This consensus reflects a shared acknowledgment of the ocean's vital importance and a collective commitment to safeguarding its future.

By fostering partnerships and driving innovation, the consensus aims to ensure the ocean's health, diversity and sustainability, contributing to a peaceful, prosperous and inclusive future for all.

The OUC also held around 10 talks with international institutions such as Heriot-Watt University in the United Kingdom, the University of Tasmania in Australia, and Polytech Nice Sophia in France, further expanding its global exchanges and cooperation.