France, June 9 -- As world leaders gather on the French Riviera to confront mounting threats to the oceans, momentum is building behind a global treaty that aims to bring order to the lawless 'wild west' of the high seas.

Speaking at the opening of the third United Nations Ocean Conference in Nice, French President Emmanuel Macron injected optimism into the global effort to safeguard the planet's oceans, expressing confidence that the landmark High Seas Treaty could enter into force by the end of the year.

Joined by UN Secretary-General António Guterres, Macron welcomed delegates with the announcement that 50 countries have already ratified the treaty, with a further 15 pledging to follow suit - just short of the 60 required to act...