Nauru supports ISA measures against Greenpeace activities
REPUBLIC OF NAURU
Government Information Office
MEDIA RELEASE
For Immediate Release
Thursday, 30 November 2023
Nauru supports the immediate
measures issued by the International Seabed Authority against
Greenpeace International concerning their activities to prevent
exploration activities
The Government of the Republic of
Nauru (Nauru) supports the prompt actions taken by the
Secretary-General of the International Seabed Authority (ISA) in
response to the disruption caused by Greenpeace International to
our sponsored entity's, Nauru Ocean Resources Inc. (NORI), lawful
exploration activities in the NORI-D contract area.
The collection of scientific and
environmental data by NORI is a requirement pursuant to its
exploration contract with ISA and is also recommended by the ISA's
Legal and Technical Commission (LTC). NORI's findings will enhance
collective understanding of the potential impacts on and recovery
of the marine environment resulting from nodule collection. This,
in turn, will advance global knowledge of the deep ocean and
significantly contribute to scientific understanding.
Reports received by Nauru indicate
that on November 22, 2023, Greenpeace instigated disruptions to
NORI's operations. The situation escalated when Greenpeace
personnel unlawfully boarded NORI's research vessel, causing
significant disruptions to ongoing operations. As of this media
release, Greenpeace personnel remain on board the research vessel,
demanding that NORI cease operations and leave the area.
While fully respecting the freedom
of expression and the right to peaceful protest, Nauru cautions
that failure to address such disruptive actions effectively may
establish a dangerous precedent. Nauru, therefore, strongly
condemns the disruptions and supports NORI's efforts to pursue
legal action against Greenpeace's unlawful activities and disregard
for international law.
Nauru remains steadfast in its
commitment to upholding international law for the promotion of
global peace and security and preserving the integrity of
multilateralism. Nauru is dedicated to safeguarding our legitimate
rights as a Sponsoring State, all while prioritizing the well-being
of our people and our strive towards a net-zero sustainable
future.
ENDS///