In a significant step for Pacific fisheries, U.S Ambassador Marie Damour on Monday hailed the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) on Fishing Access Terms for 2025 as a “testament to enduring cooperation” between the United States and Pacific nations.
Speaking at the ceremony held during the 21st Regular Session of the Western and Central Pacific Fisheries Commission (WCPFC), Ambassador Damour underlined the importance of the Tuna Treaty, calling it “the cornerstone of our shared commitment to sustainable fisheries and economic development.”
“As a Pacific nation, the United States deeply values the ocean and its fisheries, which are vital to Pacific governments, economies, and cultures.
“For decades, the Tuna Treaty has been the cornerstone of cooperation on fisheries and economic development – key priorities that we share with our Blue Pacific partner,” Damour said.
The agreement comes at a critical time as Pacific Island countries seek to safeguard their marine resources against overfishing and climate impacts. The MOU will regulate fishing access within exclusive economic zones, aligning with WCPFC’s broader conservation framework.
“The Tuna Treaty helps Pacific Island fisheries manage access to their exclusive economic zones, while ensuring fishing activities do not deplete fish stocks. Meanwhile, the WCPFC takes a broader approach, managing and conserving highly migratory fish stocks across the wider western and central Pacific Ocean”.
The 1987 Tuna Treaty, which laid the groundwork for WCPFC, remains central to these efforts.
“The Memorandum of Understanding we sign today concludes another round of successful negotiations between the United States and the Pacific Islands to advance sustainable fisheries management in the Blue Pacific. The United States looks forward to our continued cooperation on the Treaty and other efforts to further the sustainable management of fisheries in the Pacific,” said Damour said.
New Zealand High Commissioner Charlotte Darlow was delighted to sign a MoU on behalf of New Zealand to apply a new commercial model for the U.S-Pacific Tuna Treaty.
“This long-standing Treaty plays an important role in Pacific fisheries cooperation, and we welcome the updated access arrangements for U.S vessels and certainty for the coming years.”
New Zealand is keen to maximise the regional benefits by enhancing collaboration and boosting the economic returns of tuna to the Pacific.
The High Commissioner was also pleased to connect with those travelling from Tokelau, a highly active Treaty participant.
