I am particularly pleased to be here today at this launch.

This project represents an important step forward in U.S. efforts to promote and support sustainable development — the strength of joint effort among agencies.

My agency, the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration in the U.S. Department of Commerce is responsible for the stewardship of the coastal and marine environment, as well as the conduct of oceanic and atmospheric research and prediction. In order to fulfill this mission, we have to work across sectors - with our colleagues at the Department of Agriculture among others.

This approach is the basis for the Global Partners for Conservation Stewardship. We know that we can’t manage fisheries and marine ecosystems without somehow addressing the impacts of what others are doing on land. At its base, this project will forge alliances among all the industries, disciplines and professionals that effect conservation.

We are proud to be one of the partners in this initiative.