The Cyprus Presidency event Riding the Wave: Advancing the EU Ocean Pact through Science, Innovation and Cooperation will take place from 11-12 May 2026 at Adams Beach Hotel and Ayia Napa Marina in Ayia Napa, Cyprus. The event aims to enhance the translation of groundbreaking research on marine science and technology into actionable policy insights and solutions that meet market needs. This will be followed a week later by the 2026 edition of European Maritime Day, organised by the European Commission's DG MARE, which will take place at the Carob Mill in Limassol, Cyprus from 21-22 May 2026. This is an annual event during which Europe’s maritime community meet to network, discuss and outline joint action on maritime affairs and sustainable blue economy.
On 11 May 2026 at 10:15, EMB Executive Director Sheila Heymans will speak in a keynote session on 'From Ocean Knowledge to Policy Impact: Implementing the EU Ocean Pact through Science, Data and Innovation’, during the Riding the Wave event. This keynote session will explore how Europe’s ocean knowledge system—from large-scale observation infrastructures to scientific advisory bodies—can effectively support the implementation of the Pact and the upcoming Ocean R&I Strategy.
On 22 May 2026 at 10:15, EMB Deputy Executive Director and Science Officer Paula Kellett will speak during a panel on 'Strengthening Europe's Role in the Global Ocean Observing System and the importance of the OceanEye', in a session at the European Maritime Day.
Throughout the Presidency event, EMB documents will be available during the conference's exhibition at a dedicated stand. EMB will also be present at the RHE-MEDiation Project stand throughout European Maritime Day.