The inaugural Kerala–European Union (EU) Blue Economy Conclave concluded in Thiruvananthapuram on 19 September 2025, marking a significant step toward deeper EU–India collaboration in sustainable ocean investments, maritime activities, climate action, skills, and innovation. Co-hosted by the Government of Kerala, the EU, and the Government of India, the conclave brought together a “Team Europe” delegation led by EU Ambassador to India and Bhutan Hervé Delphin, along with ambassadors and senior representatives from 17 EU Member States and European business leaders. The event positioned Kerala as a promising hub for advancing the blue economy agenda.
The conclave provided a platform for exploring cooperation in climate-resilient coastal development, shipping and port logistics, sustainable fisheries and aquaculture, renewable energy, circular economy initiatives, and wellness tourism. Both sides emphasized the importance of public–private partnerships in driving growth, creating jobs, fostering innovation, and safeguarding marine ecosystems. Discussions highlighted mutual interest opportunities and identified Kerala as a strategic partner for future collaborations.
The event was inaugurated by Kerala Chief Minister Shri Pinarayi Vijayan, with Union Minister Shri Lalan Singh and other state and central government officials, EU ambassadors, and industry and civil society representatives in attendance. CM Vijayan stressed that partnering with the EU would enhance Kerala’s capacity for sustainable ocean-based development, including fisheries, coastal resilience, and marine innovation. EU Ambassador Hervé Delphin noted that while Kerala currently ranks 10th in European investment in India, it offers unique opportunities for maritime industries, skills development, tourism, and coastal innovation.
Several EU-supported projects in Kerala already demonstrate this collaborative approach. Thiruvananthapuram is part of the CITIIS 2.0 programme for integrated solid waste management, while the Kochi Metro has received financial support from Germany and France. EU cooperation in Kerala also targets plastic waste reduction, including in fishing operations, and flood mitigation studies in Kochi are informing a water partnership project in Thiruvananthapuram.
The conclave featured a large delegation from both Europe and Kerala. Team Europe included ambassadors and senior representatives from Belgium, Bulgaria, Denmark, Finland, Hungary, Italy, Malta, Poland, Slovakia, Spain, Romania, Austria, France, Slovenia, the Netherlands, Germany, and Sweden. From Kerala, ministers across fisheries, finance, health, public works, tourism, revenue, animal husbandry, education, and labor, along with central government representatives and key stakeholders, participated. Their engagement underscored strong national and regional commitment to advancing India’s blue economy through sustainable and innovative partnerships.
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