Fisheries officials and delegates from the 17 Members of the Pacific Islands Forum Fisheries Agency (FFA), are gathering this week at the Millenium Hall in Niue for the 138th Forum Fisheries Committee (FFC) Annual Officials Meeting.
This five-day gathering offers an important opportunity for members to shape the direction of sustainable tuna fisheries management in the Pacific region. Delegates will also work together to chart a strategic course that ensures lasting benefits to our Pacific Island communities.
In her keynote address, Niue’s Minister for Natural Resources, Hon. Mona Ainu’u, welcomed more than 80 delegates and observers from across the region, including representatives of regional and international organisations. Minister Ainuú, a longstanding advocate for ocean sustainability, is championing the Ocean Literacy Initiative – an effort rooted in her lived experience as an Ocean Mother, a politician, and a Gender Equality and Social Inclusion (GESI) champion on climate issues.
‘My concern is that our people, especially our young people and children must understand how international and regional decisions affect their livelihoods. Our children will inherit the seeds we plant today. They will eventually take over from us, and so we need to invest now through our school curricula and outreach programs,’ said Minister Ainuú.
A key highlight of the opening ceremony was the official handover of the FFC Chair from Nauru to Niue.
Outgoing chair and chief executive officer of the Nauru Fisheries and Marine Resources Authority, Erana Aliklik passed the role to Poi Okesene, director of the Department of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries for Niue.
‘It has been a privilege to serve as Chair. I urge everyone here to stand in unity and solidarity as one Pacific region to strengthen our regional priorities. I am confident that under Niue’s leadership, our relationship will grow even stronger as we continue to protect our tuna resources,’ Erana Aliklik said.
Incoming chair Poi Okesene acknowledged Nauru’s leadership and thanked members for their continued unity and support to FFA’s priorities for 2025-2026.
‘We are honoured to host this year’s meeting in Niue. I look forward to working closely with all Members, as we shape the future of Pacific fisheries together,’ Poi Okesene said.
FFA director general Noan Pakop also addressed the gathering, expressing his gratitude to members and partners for their dedication to regional cooperation and stewardship of the Blue Pacific.
‘As we shape FFA’s next Strategic Plan, our focus is clear – aligning with the 2050 Strategy for the Blue Pacific Continent and recognising fisheries as more than a resource, but as a driver of regional unity, economic growth, and long-term wellbeing.’
Over the coming days, officials will deliberate on several key issues, including progress on the review of the FFA Strategic Plan, the independent review of FFA, and updates on regional fisheries policies. The opening ceremony also featured a moving performance by young Niuean students – a heartfelt reminder that our future generations are the centre of these discussions.
