Pacific solidarity, shared ocean stewardship, and regional partnership took centre stage as senior fisheries officials, diplomats, and regional partners gathered for an official welcome alongside the 142nd Forum Fisheries Committee (FFC142) Officials Meeting in Wellington.
Hosted at the Grand Hall of Parliament by New Zealand Minister for Oceans and Fisheries Hon. Shane Jones and Minister of Foreign Affairs Rt Hon Winston Peters, this brought together representatives from across the Pacific at a time when the region faces growing economic pressures, climate challenges, and increasing global interest in Pacific tuna resources.
‘Fisheries remain an incredibly important shared resource for all of us,’ Shane Jones said in his address, and speaking of the enduring relationships that continue to bind Pacific nations together.
‘While New Zealand may have different fisheries interests, I can assure you that the pelagic species that make their way into our part of Te Moana Nui a Kiwa are deeply treasured.’
He acknowledged the critical importance of tuna resources to Pacific Island economies and reaffirmed New Zealand’s commitment to working alongside Pacific neighbours to ensure the sustainable management of the region’s fisheries.
The event also highlighted the broader challenges facing Pacific fisheries, including rising fuel prices, increasing operational costs, and growing pressures on regional economies.
‘New Zealand stands ready to work effectively and collaboratively with your governments, right through to your respective agencies and authorities, to find practical solutions, Shane Jones told delegates.
The reception preceded a busy week of discussions on some of the Pacific’s most pressing fisheries priorities, including tuna management, regional governance reforms, monitoring and surveillance cooperation, climate change impacts, and preparations for upcoming Western and Central Pacific Fisheries Commission negotiations.
‘I encourage everyone to use this gathering as a productive opportunity, not only to discuss the challenges before us, but also to strengthen the bonds that unite us as Pacific peoples,’ Minister Jones said.
