THE Pacific Islands Forum Fisheries Agency has been recognised for the collective leadership of Pacific Island countries in responsible fisheries management.
FAO Director-General Dr QU Dongyu presented the Margarita Lizárraga Medal to agency Director-General Noan David Pakop in Rome.
The Margarita Lizárraga Medal is awarded biennially to a person or organisation that has served with distinction in applying the FAO Code of Conduct for Responsible Fisheries.
Accepting the award on behalf of FFA Members and the Secretariat, Mr Pakop said the recognition belonged first and foremost to the agency’s 17 Members.
“For more than four decades, they have demonstrated what can be achieved when Pacific nations stand together, share responsibility and act collectively to safeguard their sovereign fisheries resources,” the FFA Director-General acknowledged.
“This award also belongs to the generations of Pacific fisheries leaders, officials, scientists, observers, enforcement officers and communities who have worked tirelessly to make sure that our ocean continues to sustain our people.”
Mr Pakop also acknowledged the contribution of past and present FFA Secretariat staff, whose technical expertise and commitment have supported the Agency’s work with its Members. The Pacific is home to the largest tuna fishery globally. The fishery supports national economies, food security and livelihoods and remains closely connected to the cultures and identity of Pacific people.
