The Prime Minister, Dominique de Villepin, asked for a strategic study to be carried out to support France’s contribution to the definition of the EU integrated maritime strategy required by the European Commission (the Green Paper), and to draw up elements of a national maritime strategy.

His tasking document of 3 October 2005 reveals two objectives: to support France’s maritime ambitions, and to ensure the coherence and effectiveness of the actions of the various actors involved. The work has been carried out by a public/private working group under the joint initiative of the Centre for Strategic Analysis and the Secretariat-General for Maritime Affairs. In addition to the monthly sessions of the working group, there have been some ministerial hearings

The Present Situation

The need to change our approach has been made clear by the evident shortcomings caused by the juxtaposition of the sectorial policies dealing with maritime activities, transport, fisheries, leisure and exploitation of mineral resources. There is an increase in mutual antagonism, which could lead to major conflicts.