Fisheries ministers from 16 Pacific Island countries yesterday signed a memorandum of understanding on Fishing Access Terms for 2025.
The event was attended by US Ambassador Marie Damour and Deputy Director-General of the Pacific Islands Forum Fisheries Agency Dr Pio Manoa.
Ms Damour said her nation deeply valued the ocean and its fisheries, resources which were vital to Pacific governments, economies, and cultures.
“For decades the Tuna Treaty has been the cornerstone of cooperation on fisheries and economic development — key priorities that we share with our Blue Pacific partners,” she said at the Vodafone arena.
She said this MOU could not come at a more appropriate time than during the 21st Regular Session of the Western and Central Pacific Fisheries Commission (WCPFC).
“Both WCPFC and the 1987 Treaty on fisheries play critical roles in managing and sustaining fisheries resources in the Pacific Ocean and fostering regional cooperation.
“The Tuna treaty helps Pacific Island Fisheries manage access to their exclusive economic zones, while ensuring fishing activities do not deplete fish stocks.”
The 1987 Treaty serves as a foundation for the WCPFC by bringing together Blue Pacific nations, fishing entities, and international stakeholders in achieving sustainable fisheries governance.
“The (MOU) we sign today (yesterday) concludes another round of successful negotiations between the (US) and the Pacific islands to advance sustainable management in the Blue Pacific.
“Together, we ensure the long-term sustainability of shared fishery resources in the Pacific,” Ms Damour said.
