Papua New Guinea’s Prime Minister James Marape has called for urgent international action to combat illegal fishing and the exploitation of Pacific fisheries. He addressed these pressing issues during the Honiara Summit on Sustainable Fisheries, emphasizing that Pacific nations have long been custodians of their ocean resources.
At the summit, which runs from February 24 to 27, 2025, Marape urged global powers to recognize their role in marine pollution and rising sea temperatures while supporting the management of marine resources in the Pacific. This year’s theme, “Iumi Tugeda Delivering on SDG 14.4: Achieving Sustainable Fisheries,” reflects the summit’s focus on promoting sustainable fisheries practices.
During his speech, Marape highlighted the longstanding commitment of Pacific Island nations to sustainable fisheries, asserting that they have practiced these methods long before the establishment of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) in 2015. He challenged industrialized nations to recognize their contributions to overfishing and environmental harm, stating, “No one needs to lecture us on fish sustainability—it is our lifestyle.”
The Prime Minister pointed out that key nations, including the United States, China, and members of the European Union, must assist in the fight against illegal fishing in Pacific waters. He issued a stern warning, saying, “If I catch illegal fishing in my country, I will sink all the boats,” and highlighted Papua New Guinea’s defense agreements with the United States to help combat these unlawful activities.
Marape also appealed to the United Nations for a global crackdown on illegal fishing, which he noted disproportionately impacts Pacific nations while benefiting wealthier countries. He raised concerns about the economic condition of nations like Kiribati, which possesses vast ocean territories yet ranks low in GDP per capita, questioning the paradox of rich fishing resources contributing to poverty.
Further, the Prime Minister announced a new policy that will prohibit the export of unprocessed fish, mandating that all catches be processed within Papua New Guinea starting September 16 of this year. He believes this regulation is crucial for ensuring that the economic benefits remain with the Pacific Islands.
In closing, Marape urged Pacific nations to enhance cooperation in fisheries management and climate action, stressing that fish migration across national borders necessitates a united front in tackling these challenges. He underscored the importance of technological support and global commitment to address climate change, which directly threatens fish stocks and the livelihoods of those dependent on them.
As the Honiara Summit continues, it holds great promise for shaping the future of fisheries policies in the region, with a shared vision for sustainable management that prioritizes long-term ecological and economic benefits.
Overall, this summit aims to not only address the issues at hand but also foster collaboration among Pacific nations and global partners, reinforcing the hope for healthier oceans and stronger economic resilience for Pacific communities.
Leave a comment