Ladies and Gentlemen,
Thank you for inviting me to the North Atlantic Fish Fair 2013.
As the Prime Minister of the Faroe Islands, I am delighted to see you once again here in Klaksvík, the fishery hub of the Faroe Islands.
The societies in the North Atlantic depend on the sea and its natural resources.
It is reflected in the diversity of the companies present at this fair as they operate in at least two of the most important segments in the area - the fishing industry and the offshore oil industry.
The exploitation of the riches of our natural resources has been the foundation of our economies and welfare for generations and will continue to be a key economic factor in our region in the years to come.
Adapting to the needs for future sustainable growth in the fishery sector is crucial for the people of the region. All these companies at this Fish Fair are living examples that innovation and adaptability goes hand in hand, and knows no boundaries.
A proof of this is that many of you are now operating with your products and services in the offshore industry as well, and are able to benefit through transnational co-operation and innovation in both these important sectors.
Innovation and application of new technology in the maritime sector has become crucial, and is an important key to growth in these sectors in our region in the future
Climate change will affect a broad range of human activities and welfare in different ways and to different extents. Some of the most direct impacts in our region will be felt in sectors that rely on natural resources, such as fisheries, aquaculture and energy production. In this context Adaptation and innovation is crucial to deal with the effects of climate change.
Innovation is also a key factor in ensuring sustainable solutions that enhance long-term economic viability of the fisheries. By showcasing and sharing knowledge and creating business-to-business partnerships we can obtain greater productivity in our fishing industry.
I am confident that the North Atlantic Fish Fair once again will present the best of what fisheries-related businesses in the North Atlantic are capable of, both in our region and world-wide.
I hereby open the North Atlantic Fish Fair 2013.