Press Release
Tonga PARTICIPATES IN THE FOURTH MEETING OF THE PARTIES TO THE FAO AGREEMENT ON PORT STATES MEASURES AGREEMENT (MOP 4)
[Nuku’alofa tonga, 16 - 18th May 2023] – Tonga, a committed Party to the FAO Agreement on Port State Measures (PSMA), showcased its dedication to combating illegal, unreported, and unregulated (IUU) fishing at the Fourth Meeting of the Parties (MOP 4) held in Bali, Indonesia from 8th to 12th May, 2023. The event, hosted by the Government of Indonesia, brought together representatives from 57 Parties, 29 non-Party FAO Members, 11 international governmental organizations, and 6 international non-governmental organizations, fostering collaborative efforts in addressing IUU fishing.
Tonga's participation in MOP 4 underscored its strong commitment to implementing the PSMA and contributing to global initiatives aimed at deterring and preventing IUU fishing. As a Small Islands Developing State, Tonga recognizes the significance of cooperative action in ensuring the future implementation of the Agreement and protecting marine resources.
The Fourth Meeting of the Parties centered discussions on several key areas, including:
1. Progress and challenges in the implementation of the Agreement by Parties.
2. The importance of information exchange and the Global Information Exchange System (GIES) for effective implementation.
3. The development of a strategy to enhance the effectiveness of the PSMA in preventing, deterring, and eliminating IUU fishing.
4. Monitoring the implementation of the Agreement.
5. A work program addressing the needs of Small Islands Developing States (SIDs).
A major milestone of the meeting was the adoption of the strategy titled "A Strategy to Improve the Effectiveness of the Agreement on Port State Measures to Prevent, Deter, and Eliminate Illegal, Unreported, and Unregulated Fishing." This strategic framework will guide future actions and strengthen global cooperation in combating IUU fishing.
Tonga's delegation to MOP 4 included Mele T. Átuekaho, Deputy CEO of the Fisheries Compliance Division, and Losaline ‘Otukolo, Principal Fisheries Officer and Fisheries Compliance Officer. Their active participation allowed Tonga to contribute valuable interventions on the implementation of the PSMA within the country and highlight Tonga's collaborative efforts in the global fight against IUU fishing.
Looking ahead, the next Meeting of the Parties is scheduled to take place in Ecuador, South America, in 2025. This upcoming event will provide further opportunities for Tonga and other nations to share experiences, discuss progress, and reinforce collective actions against IUU fishing.
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