United Nations Informal Consultative Process on Ocean Affairs and Law of the Sea (ICP)

The fourth meeting of the United Nations Open-ended Informal Consultative Process on Oceans and the Law of the Sea (Consultative Process) took place from 2-6 June 2003, at UN headquarters in New York. The meeting brought together over 200 delegates from governments, intergovernmental organisations and non-governmental organisations (NGOs). Delegates convened in plenary sessions to hear general statements and exchange views on areas of concern and actions needed, particularly in matters of cooperation and coordination on oceans issues, and identify issues for further consideration by the General Assembly. In addition, two discussion panels were held to consider safety of navigation, including capacity building for the production of nautical charts, and the protection of vulnerable marine ecosystems.