On May 25-26, 2026, the China Council for International Cooperation on Environment and Development (CCICED) held its annual roundtable in Xiamen, Fujian Province, under the theme “Harmony Between Humanity and the Ocean: Building a Shared Future for All Life on Earth.” The event brought together leading policymakers, experts, academics, and international stakeholders to discuss pathways for advancing sustainable ocean governance, marine biodiversity conservation, and the development of a renewable blue economy.

The roundtable explored three thematic areas:

• Promoting Synergies Among Multilateral Conventions to Advance Global Ocean Governance: strengthening cooperation among international frameworks to support biodiversity conservation, climate action, and the sustainable use of marine resources.
• Accelerating the Green and Low-Carbon Transition of Marine Industries to Develop a Renewable Blue Economy: exploring opportunities and practical pathways for marine renewable energy, green shipping, blue food systems, and sustainable coastal tourism.
• Deepening Beautiful Bay Construction to Foster High-Quality Economic Development in the Bay Area: sharing experiences in bay ecosystem governance, integrated coastal zone management, and marine ecological restoration to promote harmony between ecological protection and economic development.

CCICED Chief Advisors, Council members, Special Advisors, representatives from national and local governments, international organizations, research institutions, and partner organizations attended the meeting.

The “Beautiful Bays Initiative” forms part of the broader vision of creating a “Beautiful China”, as outlined in China’s 14th Five-Year Plan. It emphasizes the protection of marine ecosystems while promoting a balanced relationship between human activities and the coastal environment. As part of this strategy, seven cities, including Xiamen, have been designated to develop model coastal areas that meet the standards of a beautiful bay.

The roundtable reaffirmed CCICED’s commitment to promoting international cooperation and policy dialogue on ocean sustainability, supporting the harmonious coexistence of humanity and nature, and contributing to a shared future for all life on Earth.