The North Sea is becoming a hub for critical infrastructure connecting Europe i.e. through power cables, gas pipes, and tele communications links. Furthermore, the region holds an important source of renewable energy. With this potential, an increasing interdependence across boarders has transpired. This also applies to the risks of sabotage and unwanted attention from hostile actors.
Therefore, Denmark joins forces with Belgium, the Netherlands, Germany, Norway, and the UK, by signing a Joint Declaration aiming to strengthen collaboration to protect critical infrastructure in the North Sea. The Danish Minister for Climate, Energy and Utilities, Lars Aagaard, signed the declaration on behalf of the Danish Government.
“The North Sea has the potential to become the cradle of a renewable and secure energy supply in Europe, while supporting the road to a fossil free future. In order to utilize this opportunity, we must stand united and coordinated in our efforts to protect critical infrastructure across borders. This understanding is an important step in that direction,” says Lars Aagaard Minister for Climate Energy and Utilities of Denmark.
Areas of cooperation
Due to the interconnected nature of subsea infrastructure across North Sea territories, the need for a joint regional approach to its security and protection is clear.
With this agreement, the partners aim to collaborate, to a relevant extent, by reviewing current protection and resilience measures, sharing information and knowledge, and reporting relevant information on an operational level. Additionally, the cooperation relies on the relevant work tracks within the EU and NATO.
Contact the press office of the Ministry for Climate, Energy and Utilities on +45 41 72 38 05.