A significant six-day annual meeting of fishing nations and stakeholders is taking place at the Vodafone Arena in Suva, focusing on the sustainable management and utilization of the Pacific’s essential tuna resources. This gathering, known as the 21st regular session of the Western and Central Pacific Fisheries Commission, has attracted 550 participants from around the world to deliberate on the region’s tuna stocks and their sustainable development.
Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka inaugurated the event, highlighting the deep connection between the Pacific Ocean and the livelihoods, cultures, and economies of the Pacific Island nations. He remarked, “The Pacific Ocean is home to the most productive tuna fisheries in the world, and it is our shared responsibility to ensure that these resources are managed wisely and equitably for the benefit of both current and future generations.”
PM Rabuka emphasized the critical need for science-based and data-driven decision-making in managing natural resources. He remarked that informed decisions are vital, particularly when it comes to tuna fisheries, which are transboundary in nature and vulnerable to climate change and pollution. The Prime Minister urged collaboration with scientists, fisheries experts, and local communities to develop policies that reflect a comprehensive understanding of the marine environment.
This event not only emphasizes the importance of sustainable fishing practices but also encourages global cooperation in the face of environmental challenges. By fostering dialogue among nations, there is hope for a brighter future where both the economy and marine ecosystems can thrive together.
Summarizing, the meeting at Suva reinforces the vital importance of tuna fisheries in the Pacific and highlights the shared responsibility of stakeholders to ensure their sustainable management through informed, science-based policies and community engagement.
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