Ministry of Fisheries - Tonga

Vuna Road, Sopu
Tongatapu, Tonga

+6767401201
info@tongafish.gov.to

Tonga Ministry of Fisheries Signs MOU for US Treaty

 

Tonga Ministry of Fisheries Signs MOU for US Treaty

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Nuku’alofa, 16th April, 2024 – The Tonga Ministry of Fisheries is pleased to announce the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) under the United States Fisheries Treaty with the Pacific Islands Parties which is administered by the Pacific Islands Forum Fisheries Agency (FFA). The CEO represent Tonga as one of the seventeen members of the Pacific Island Parties (PIP) and this fisheries Treaty arrangement strengthening cooperation among FFA members and the United States in fisheries management, development and conservation among other activities. The MOU provides for the United States fleet operating under the Treaty to continue fishing in the EEZs of the Pacific Island Parties. Present at the ceremony was the CEO of the Ministry of Fisheries and Kaburoro Ruaia, the Multilateral Treaty Administrator Manager from FFA.

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The MOU, signed in Nuku'alofa, outlines joint efforts to combat illegal fishing and promote sustainable practices. It underscores both nations' commitment to marine conservation and supports Tonga's capacity-building initiatives.

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This agreement reflects Tonga's proactive approach to international fisheries management and reinforces diplomatic ties with the United States and the other Pacific Island Parties.

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OFFICIAL HANDOVER OF 30 BOATS FROM NIPPON FOUNDATION FROM THE JAPANESE GOVERNMENT TO THE GOVERNMENT OF TONGA ON THE 28TH FEB 2024

Press Release

Official Handover of 30 Boats from Nippon foundation from the japanese Government to the government of tonga on the 28th feb 2024

[Ministry of Fisheries, Sopu, February 26, 2024] – The Ministry of Fisheries Tonga is pleased to announce the successful completion of the official handover ceremony of 30 boats and outboard engines, generously provided by the Nippon Foundation from the Japanese Government as part of the support in re-building from Hunga Tonga Hunga Ha’apai incident, which took place on the 28th of February 2024. This significant event marked a pivotal moment in the ongoing partnership between the Nippon Foundation and the Tonga Government aimed at advancing the nation's fisheries sector.

The Acting Ambassador for the Japan Embassy, Daishoji Toshiyuki and Mr. Takehiro Umemura, Senior Program Director of Nippon Foundation handed 30 boats to his Prime Minister, Hon. Hu’akavameiliku and the government of Tonga. The event underscored the commitment of both parties to bolstering sustainable fishing practices and supporting the socio-economic development of Tonga's coastal communities. This brought together district officers, government officials, representatives from the Nippon Foundation, members of the local communities and boat builders.

These 30 boats measured in 18 x 23 ft with 40HP and 12 x 32 ft with 85HP, outfitted with modern equipment and amenities, symbolized a tangible investment in Tonga's maritime infrastructure. These vessels were designed not only to enhance the capabilities of local fishermen but also to contribute to the preservation of marine resources and the promotion of food security in the region.

The partnership between the Nippon Foundation and the Tonga Government reflected a shared vision of promoting inclusive growth and environmental stewardship. By empowering local fishermen with the tools and resources they need to thrive, both organizations paved the way for a more prosperous and resilient maritime sector.

As Tonga continues its journey towards sustainable development, collaborations such as these serve as catalysts for positive change and reinforce the bonds of friendship and cooperation between nations.

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Ministry of Fisheries