The "Biodiversity Agreement for the Ocean" takes effect, marking a historic moment for global ocean protection

The world's first legally binding international treaty for the protection of marine biodiversity in the high seas—the "Marine Biodiversity Agreement"—officially came into effect on January 17, marking a historic moment for global ocean protection after nearly 20 years of negotiations. According to the Agreement, contracting parties are required to strengthen cooperation in marine science and technology and support developing countries in enhancing their marine governance capabilities. If companies in various countries plan to engage in activities that may harm marine ecosystems, they must conduct environmental impact assessments according to the standards set by the Agreement. Marine biological research involving commercial development must report to and share results with the international community. As of the day before the Agreement came into effect, 83 countries had completed the approval process, including major marine powers such as China. Although the United States has signed the Agreement, it has not yet ratified it, and therefore can only participate in subsequent meetings as an observer without voting rights. (CCTV News)