PRIME Minister Jeremiah Manele has emphasised the importance of improving ocean governance and strengthening international agreements to support sustainable fisheries, particularly under SDG 14.4, which focuses on the sustainable management of fisheries.
PM Manele delivered the keynote statement at the Honiara Summit’s High-Level Session on ‘Improving Ocean Governance and Strengthening Cohesion Across the Multilateral Agreements to Support Sustainable Fisheries Efforts.’
The PM emphasised the critical need for global collaboration in achieving Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 14.4.
He also highlighted the unique challenges faced by Small Island Developing States (SIDS), especially in the Pacific, which is home to some of the world’s richest fishing grounds.
“With over 50% of the world’s tuna caught in the Western and Central Pacific, the Pacific’s commitment to science-based management remains a model for global fisheries restoration.”
PM Manele also emphasised the urgent need for enhanced partnerships and global cooperation to combat illegal, unreported, and unregulated (IUU) fishing, calling for stronger enforcement measures and improved surveillance technologies.
He said the impact of climate change on shifting fish stocks and the importance of preserving the sovereign rights of Small Islands Developing States (SIDS) over their marine resources.
“I note with concern that partnerships for SDG 14 are not receiving the attention it deserves. Sadly, the Pacific received only 0.22% of global climate finance, hoping that the Summit will breathe new life into partnerships needed to save humanity,” the PM added.
PM Manele urged all nations and non-state actors to join the Blue Pacific in taking stronger action toward achieving SDG 14.4, ensuring a sustainable future for our oceans and fisheries.
– OPMC
