The need to step up action to eliminate the risks posed by unexploded ordnance and chemical weapons on the Baltic seabed 

Question for written answer  E-001138/2021
to the Commission
Rule 138
Anna Fotyga (ECR)

In February 2019, I spoke at a colloquium organised by the Commission on the challenges of unexploded munitions in the sea, which was intended to be an important step in diagnosing the problem and identifying ways to address it. Representatives of Member States, regional and international organisations and scientists highlighted the need for closer cooperation to improve the monitoring and removal of dumped munitions. As I pointed out at the colloquium, the situation is particularly difficult in the Baltic Sea, where scientific studies suggest there could be between 50 and 100 tonnes. According to the Commission, the problem will be addressed through the Interreg Baltic Sea Region Programme 2021-2027. The issue of unexploded ordnance and chemical weapons on the Baltic seabed must be a priority of the negotiated programme. With a view to the next meeting of the Joint Programme Committee in March, could the Commission answer the following questions:

• 1.What priority status will the issue of munitions and chemical weapons have under the Interreg Baltic Sea Region Programme?
• 2.What other action has the Commission taken since the colloquium, in particular in terms of strengthening cooperation on improving the monitoring and disposal of dumped munitions?
• 3.Does the Commission envisage any horizontal action in which the Baltic countries could exchange experience and knowledge with countries tackling the issue of dumped munitions and chemical weapons in other European seas? What financial resources does it intend to allocate for this purpose?