The U.S. is to join the United Nations’ Food and Agricultural Organization (FAO) in tackling illegal fishing and promoting sustainable fisheries following confirmation this week that it would join an FAO international agreement aimed at curbing illegal fishing.
“FAO is a strong partner in the promotion of sustainable fisheries, and we look forward to continuing to collaborate with you and the entire global community in the fight against illegal fishing,” said U.S. Ambassador to the United Nations David Lane.
The Agreement comes into force when 25 countries or regional economic blocs have deposited their instrument of adherence with the FAO Director-General. To date 22 instruments of adherence have been deposited by 21 countries, and the European Union on behalf of its members. Among the latest are Barbados, Republic of Korea and South Africa. The main purpose of the Agreement is to prevent, deter and eliminate illegal, unreported and unregulated (IUU) fishing through the implementation of robust port State measures.
FAO Director-General, Jose Graziano da Silva said that several other countries have expressed a willingness to become party to the Agreement and that the target of 25 could be reached by July this year.
To assist countries in building their capacity to implement the Agreement, FAO has convened a series of regional workshops around the world, with participation from over 100 countries.