Dr Manu Tupou-Roosen, Director General, Pacific Islands Forum Fisheries Agency

FFA welcomes the theme of this year’s #WorldOceanDay The Ocean: Life and Livelihood.  This resonates strongly with our membership with the Ocean being central to our survival.

Our region is home to the world’s largest and best-managed tuna fishery in the world.  The biological sustainability of our tuna fisheries means that we have the best platform to ensure it is also economically, socially and environmentally sustainable.

The sustainability of our tuna fisheries ensures that it continues to be a key contributor to economic development, food security and employment.  For some Members income from tuna fisheries makes up between 25 to 90% of total government revenue.  This revenue builds schools, hospitals and important infrastructure for our island nations.

Amidst the evolving COVID-19 crisis, we are proud of the resilience, strength and innovation shown by our Pacific people in working together to continue tackling our ongoing challenges such as Climate Change, IUU Fishing, Safety and Welfare of crew and observers and Marine Pollution…  Cooperation lies at the heart of our work.  It is our Pacific Way.

Today is an opportunity to celebrate as well as remind ourselves of the important tasks ahead to sustain our Ocean Life and Livelihoods.

Happy World Ocean Day.