Despite the freeze in relations between Russia and much of the rest of the world since the invasion of Ukraine began earlier this year, there are aspects of international relations that remain open – including fisheries diplomacy.
‘It’s good that we have concluded a fisheries agreement with Russia, despite the fact that we are in an extraordinary situation,’ said Norway’s Minister of Fisheries Bjørnar Skjæran at the conclusion of discussions with Russia, held this year via teleconferencing.
‘The agreement ensures marine management in the northern areas that is both long-term and sustainable, and in this way we are taking care of the world’s largest cod stock and the other species in the Barents Sea.’
According to a statement by the Ministry, Norway upholds the sanctions against Russia and ensures that these are complied with – while also advocating for sustainable fisheries management.
Russia has stated that the fisheries agreement for 2023 could be suspended if further tightening of restrictions is introduced for Russian vessels calling in Norwegian ports.
The TAC for northeastern Arctic cod is set at 566,800 tonnes, of which Norway has a 260,782 tonne share, Russia gets 241,800 tonnes and allocations are set aside for third countries on the same basis as previously.
The cod TAC for 2023 represents a 20% reduction compared to the 2022 quotas.
The TAC for haddock is set at 170,067 tonnes, Greenland halibut at 25,000 tonnes and redfish at 66,779 tonnes.
An initial quota for capelin has been set at 62,000 tonnes and the parties have agreed to continue working on a management plan for shrimp.
