Fiji is poised to collaborate with members of the Pacific Islands Forum Fisheries Agency (FFA) and development partners to enhance offshore fisheries, especially tuna, which stand as vital economic assets for the region. This declaration was made by Fiji’s Minister for Fisheries, Alitia Bainivalu, during her keynote address at the second FFA Development Partner Symposium held in Suva.
The two-day event convenes representatives from 17 FFA member governments and various development partners, focusing on sustainable tuna fisheries throughout the Pacific. The Symposium’s theme, “Casting Together for Impactful Fisheries,” aims to foster collaboration and strategic alignment of resources based on regional needs.
Bainivalu emphasized the importance of coordinated efforts for long-term prosperity in offshore fisheries, asserting that success is attainable when political will, sound management, and strategic investment align. She noted that revenues from tuna and access arrangements significantly contribute to the national income of many Pacific Island countries.
Highlighting the 2050 Strategy for the Blue Pacific Continent, the Minister outlined the collective vision of Pacific Leaders to ensure resilience and prosperity through shared stewardship of ocean resources, with a focus on offshore fisheries. She stated, “Casting together means aligning ambition with practical investment and ensuring cooperation delivers measurable outcomes.”
Mona Ainuu, Chair of the Forum Fisheries Committee and Minister for Natural Resources in Niue, echoed these sentiments during her opening remarks. She stressed that the success of Pacific fisheries has resulted from intentional, coordinated efforts and the enduring tradition of sharing resources within communities.
FFA Director-General Noan David Pakop noted that the Symposium fosters engaging discussions between FFA members and partners, emphasizing the need for transparency and mutual respect in their collaborations. He underscored the importance of working together to protect the invaluable marine resources of the Blue Pacific.
The Development Partner Symposium, introduced in 2024, serves as a platform for ongoing dialogue, enhancing transparency while addressing funding, technical cooperation, and shared fisheries priorities. Throughout the event, participants will assess progress, tackle current challenges, and outline actionable steps to bolster fisheries management and enhance regional capacities.
The Symposium reflects the collective responsibility among members and partners to protect Pacific tuna resources, ensuring they provide lasting economic and social benefits for the communities reliant on them. The conclusion of this important gathering is anticipated to lead to new pathways for sustainable fisheries development in the region.