The Minister of Fisheries and Ocean Resources, Ahmed Shiyam, met with the Assistant Director-General of the Food and Agriculture Organisation (FAO), Manuel Barange, to explore potential collaborative programs. This meeting emphasised the continued partnership between the Maldives and the FAO, particularly in the realm of fisheries and ocean resources management.
During the discussion, Minister Shiyam highlighted the FAO’s historical contribution to the development of the first anchored fish aggregating devices (AFADs) 40 years ago. He noted the ongoing efforts to enhance the longevity of these devices and expressed a desire for further technical cooperation in mariculture. The minister outlined plans to initiate large-scale mariculture projects later this year, signalling a significant advancement in the sector.
Additionally, the minister sought the FAO’s legal assistance in drafting new legislation aimed at the sustainable management and utilisation of other ocean resources. This request aligns with the Maldives’ commitment to preserving its marine environment while maximising economic benefits from its ocean resources.
The meeting also touched upon the crucial role of the FAO in the Indian Ocean Tuna Commission (IOTC). Minister Shiyam called for improved cooperation in managing highly migratory fish stocks, which are vital to the region’s ecological and economic stability. The FAO acknowledged the Maldives’ significant contribution to the fisheries sector in the Indian Ocean and expressed readiness to support these initiatives.
Furthermore, Manuel Barange conveyed the FAO’s willingness to provide technical support through the Global Environment Facility (GEF) for the ratification of the Biodiversity Beyond National Jurisdiction (BBNJ) agreement. This collaboration aims to bolster the Maldives’ efforts in marine conservation and sustainable use of ocean resources.
The meeting concluded with a reaffirmation of the strong partnership between the Maldives and the FAO, setting the stage for future collaborative endeavours in fisheries management and marine resource development.
