Healthy tuna stocks today do not guarantee healthy tuna stocks tomorrow, says Deputy Prime Minister Viliame Gavoka.
This reinforces the need to stay vigilant, attentive, and united when addressing issues plaguing the region’s fisheries sector, he said.
Officiating at the opening of the 9th Pacific Tuna Forum in Nadi yesterday, Mr Gavoka said economic pressures, shifting markets, and global competition demanded constant innovation and strategic cooperation.
“At the same time, we face the growing threat of illegal, unreported, and unregulated fishing. Strengthening monitoring, enforcement, and data security will be critical in upholding the integrity of our resources,” he said.
“Beyond the political challenges lies a larger truth that regional collaboration remains our greatest strength.”
Mr Gavoka said working collaboratively would ensure that tuna continued to be a pillar of security, prosperity, and cultural pride across the Pacific.
“The forum provides a vital space to deepen our understanding of tuna stock dynamics and supply chains,” he said.
Each of these opportunities, Mr Gavoka said, represented building blocks for a productive future grounded in resilience and shared benefit.
“The Ocean of Peace is not just an aspiration, it is a framework of 12 principles, already endorsed by Pacific leaders.
“It seeks a Pacific region where strategic competition is managed, cohesion is rejected, disputes are resolved peacefully, the maritime environment is protected, critical navigation and overflight are respected, and human rights upheld.
“The vision recognises that our security depends not only on external threats, but on internal cohesion, community, well-being, ecological health, and economic justice.”
Mr Gavoka said these efforts had already yielded results across the Pacific.
“Tuna has created jobs, supported individuals in infrastructure, transferred knowledge and technology, and helped buffer our economies against climate and global shocks.
“Our ocean remains home to the world’s last healthy tuna stocks. All of these resources are currently within sustainable limits, a rare global achievement, and a testament to regional unity and effective cooperation.”
