Warm Pacific Greetings from Palau!
The 2nd of May marks an important date in our Pacific national calendars. On December 7th, 2016, the General Assembly designated May 2nd – World Tuna Day (Res 71/124), recognizing that many ocean States and communities depend heavily on tuna resources for food security and nutrition, economic development, and livelihood.
In the Pacific, this day highlights the importance of sustainably managed fish stocks in achieving the 2050 Strategy commitments as well as the commitments under the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development. Around $2-3 billion worth of tuna is caught per year in the national waters of Members, and this is not only a testament to how tuna is increasingly important for country in terms of revenue but is an indication of the robust management measures that are in place in the Pacific.
Tuna also has a degree of great significance to cultural and ceremonial identities for our indigenous communities and as we know, is threatened by an overwhelming demand. These majestic creatures not only sustain marine life but also support the economic prosperity of countless communities across our Blue Pacific. Our collective resolve through cooperation will be important to maintain the current trajectory.
By ensuring the preservation of tuna populations, we safeguard the delicate balance of marine ecosystems and protect the biodiversity that sustains life in the Pacific. I also wish to take this time to echo the work done by our Pacific negotiators in International negotiation Forums to protect our Ocean such as at the recent fourth session of the Intergovernmental Negotiating Committee to develop an international legally binding instrument on plastic pollution, including in the marine environment (INC-4). Curbing plastic pollution, eliminating IUU fishing activities and removing harmful subsidies in the fisheries sector strengthens the health of our Ocean and our tuna stocks.
As a member of the Pacific Ocean Alliance, the Office of the Pacific Ocean Commissioner wishes to acknowledge the work of the Forum Fisheries Agency and the Parties to the Nauru Agreement in managing our Tuna and marine stocks and continue to amplify our joined efforts in protecting our Ocean. I also acknowledge the good work done by the WCPFC Tuna Commission on the management of highly migratory stocks.
I therefore would like to take this opportunity to wish our Forum members, communities and fellow Pacific Ocean Alliance members Best wishes for a prosperous World Tuna Day!!
