Samoa is hosting the Western and Central Pacific Fisheries Commission (WCPFC) Scientific Committee meeting, bringing together delegates from 26 countries to consider key fisheries management and conservation issues in the region.
Samoa’s Prime Minister and Cabinet welcomed delegates at a ceremonial ava ceremony held at the EFKS Hall on Monday.
The meeting is being hosted by the Ministry of Agriculture and Fisheries (MAF), with WCPFC members expected to undertake detailed discussions on the status and management of fisheries resources in the Western and Central Pacific.
Representatives from non-members and territories are also attending as observers.
At the ava ceremony, Prime Minister La’auli Leuatea Schmidt spoke about the importance of the meeting and welcomed the WCPFC’s decision to hold the session in Samoa.
He also highlighted the need to protect and secure the Blue Pacific Ocean, stressing that member countries must work together to sustainably manage the region’s marine resources.
The two-week meeting has brought together senior fisheries scientists from around the world who will exchange scientific data and consider key issues including the state of fisheries in the Western and Central Pacific Ocean, fisheries data and stock assessments.
Discussions will also cover the Regional Observer Programme, development of the WCPFC harvest strategy framework, and models and methods for managing different fish stocks.
MAF Chief Executive Officer Afamasaga Taimalietane Matatumua said outcomes from Samoa’s fisheries week held last week would be presented for consideration during the meeting.
Professor Emily Carter is chairing the 22nd Regular Session of the WCPFC Scientific Committee.
The WCPFC said the meeting is focused on “ensuring the long-term sustainability of highly migratory fish stock in the region through science-based management and international cooperation.”
The Scientific Committee session will run for two weeks in Samoa.
