Fiji takes a proactive stance in enhancing offshore fisheries, particularly tuna, recognized as a vital economic asset for the Pacific region. During her keynote speech at the second Forum Fisheries Agency (FFA) Development Partner Symposium in Suva, Fiji’s Minister for Fisheries, Alitia Bainivalu, emphasized the importance of collaboration among FFA member governments and development partners to ensure sustainable fishing practices.
The two-day symposium, themed “Casting Together for Impactful Fisheries,” convenes representatives from 17 FFA member nations along with development partners to engage in targeted discussions aimed at promoting sustainable tuna fisheries throughout the Pacific. Minister Bainivalu highlighted that coordination is essential for long-term success in offshore fisheries. “No country or institution can secure long-term prosperity alone. Impact comes when political will, sound management, and strategic investment move in alignment,” she stated.
Bainivalu pointed out the economic significance of tuna fisheries, as revenues generated from access agreements and associated activities play a critical role in the national income of many Pacific Island countries. She referred to the 2050 Strategy for the Blue Pacific Continent, where Pacific leaders have identified a long-term vision that emphasizes collective stewardship over the ocean, positioning offshore fisheries as a cornerstone of this strategy.
Mona Ainuu, Chair of the Forum Fisheries Committee and Niue Minister for Natural Resources, reinforced the theme’s significance, noting that the progress in Pacific fisheries has always been the result of intentional and collective action among member states. “Fisheries is deeply rooted in our DNA,” Ainuu remarked, highlighting the historical knowledge of working together and sharing resources among communities.
FFA Director-General Noan David Pakop welcomed participants, stressing that the symposium serves as a platform for transparent engagement with development partners. He underscored the importance of aligning efforts and focusing on strategic investments to achieve sustainable outcomes. “If we are to safeguard the greatest shared asset of the Blue Pacific, we must continue casting together—deliberately and strategically,” Pakop said.
This symposium, first introduced in 2024, marks a member-driven initiative aimed at facilitating transparency and ongoing communication between FFA members and their partners. It focuses on structured discussions surrounding funding, technical cooperation, and mutual fisheries priorities. Over the two days, the attendees will evaluate progress, address current challenges, and outline actionable next steps to bolster fisheries management and national capacity across the region.
Overall, the symposium epitomizes the collective commitment of members and partners to protect Pacific tuna resources, ensuring they continue to provide enduring economic and social benefits to Pacific communities. The event concludes today, with participants hopeful for a positive impact on the future of sustainable fisheries in the region.
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