By Diplomacy Journal Lee Kap-soo

Vice Minister of Oceans and Fisheries Kim Sung-beom met with Ambassador of the European Union (EU) to Korea Maria Castillo Fernandez in the Ministry of Oceans and Fisheries (MOF) conference room on Aug. 4, 2025.

During this meeting, the two sides shared their positions on mid-term measures to reduce greenhouse gas emissions, a key agenda item in the international shipping sector, and discussed ways to cooperate in establishing green shipping routes.

The International Maritime Organization (IMO) plans to adopt mid-term measures to reduce greenhouse gas emissions from ships at its general assembly in October.

Vice Minister Kim also requested the EU's active support for the successful hosting of the 4th UN Maritime Assembly.

Ambassador Castillo Fernandez stated, "I expect today's meeting will serve as an opportunity to further strengthen cooperation between the EU and Korea toward net zero."

Vice Minister Kim stated, "The Republic of Korea and the EU have been working closely together to reduce greenhouse gas emissions from international shipping," and urged them to "continue to work together to achieve carbon neutrality by 2050."