Fiji is actively seeking technical assistance from Portugal to enhance its ocean protection initiatives. Lynda Tabuya, Fiji’s Minister for Information, Environment, and Climate Change, recently met with Salvador Malheiro, Portugal’s Secretary of State for Fisheries and Maritime Affairs, to discuss collaborative efforts in marine protection, enforcement, and governance on the high seas.
A primary topic of their discussions was Fiji’s ambition to create an effective Marine Litter Action Plan. The delegation from Fiji is particularly interested in leveraging Portugal’s extensive experience in monitoring marine litter, establishing enforcement systems, and implementing port-based initiatives such as “fishing for litter”, which could serve as a framework for ensuring that Fiji’s action plan includes measurable outcomes and robust enforcement mechanisms.
Furthermore, the two countries addressed the implementation of the High Seas Biodiversity Beyond National Jurisdiction Treaty, which both have ratified. Fiji expressed its need for capacity-building support, including training aimed at developing proposals for high seas marine protected areas and conducting environmental impact assessments in areas beyond national jurisdiction.
The discussions also touched on potential opportunities through the UN–Portugal Ocean Fellowship Programme. Fiji is keen to explore dedicated placements and specialized training in areas such as high seas governance, enforcement against marine pollution, and blue finance, which could significantly bolster its ocean stewardship efforts.
This collaboration underscores the growing international focus on marine conservation and the important role countries like Fiji play in sustainable ocean management. With Portugal’s support, Fiji hopes to set a benchmark for effective ocean governance in the Pacific region, ultimately contributing to global efforts in marine protection and sustainability.
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