Key regional fisheries issues are currently being discussed at the 138th Annual Officials Forum of the Pacific Islands Forum Fisheries Agency, taking place in Niue. This significant event began last Friday at Millennium Hall, gathering representatives from 17 FFA member countries to focus on sustainability, resource management, and strategic priorities for the fisheries sector in the region.
The forum features discussions on various critical topics including the delegation of technical responsibilities to the FFA Secretariat and the Pacific Community, which plays a vital role in providing scientific support. Fiji’s delegation, led by Acting Director of Fisheries Nanise Kuridrani, has outlined the country’s offshore fisheries priorities, representing Fiji’s commitment to sustainable practices.
The forum was officially opened by Niue’s Minister for Natural Resources, Mona Ainu, who stressed the importance of decisive action to protect ocean resources for future generations. Her perspective underlines a shared commitment among Pacific nations to foster a sustainable marine environment that benefits both current and future communities.
The forum is set to conclude tomorrow, with the outcomes from the discussions expected to be presented at the upcoming Fisheries Ministerial Meeting. This event illustrates a collaborative approach among Pacific leaders to tackle the pressing challenges facing their fisheries and promote responsible resource management.
Previous gatherings highlight the ongoing dedication to sustainability in regional fisheries management, underscoring the need for unity in addressing climate change, overfishing, and other issues threatening marine life. The hope is that the outcomes of this forum will lead to actionable strategies that ensure the health of ocean resources now and into the future, reflecting a positive trajectory for both the environment and local livelihoods.
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