The Chief Executive Officer of the Parties to the Nauru Agreement (PNA) Office, Dr Saangalofa Clark, today paid a courtesy call on Mr Justin Ilakini, Managing Director of the Papua New Guinea National Fisheries Authority (NFA), reaffirming the longstanding partnership between Papua New Guinea and the PNA in advancing sustainable tuna fisheries management and regional cooperation.
The meeting provided an opportunity for both leaders to reflect on the strong collaboration between Papua New Guinea and the PNA Office and to reaffirm their shared commitment to the sustainable management and economic development of the Pacific's tuna resources.
Dr Clark said, "Papua New Guinea has been a steadfast partner and leader within the PNA. Our collaboration continues to demonstrate what Pacific solidarity can achieve in protecting our tuna resources while delivering greater economic benefits for our people."
Dr Clark expressed her sincere appreciation to Papua New Guinea for her continued support of the PNA Office and acknowledged PNG’s leadership within the PNA in driving regional fisheries initiatives, strengthening cooperation among member countries, and promoting sustainable fisheries management.
Mr. Ilakini said, "The partnership between the National Fisheries Authority and the PNA Office has been instrumental in advancing sustainable fisheries management and securing greater value from our tuna resources. We thank Dr Clark for her exceptional leadership and significant contribution to strengthening regional fisheries cooperation over the past six years and wish her every success in her future endeavors."
Ilakini acknowledged several key achievements under her tenure, including progress on the East New Britain initiative (ENBi), regional economic assessments, the continued success of the Vessel Day Scheme (VDS), and commercial initiatives that have enhanced the value of Pacific tuna resources for PNA member countries.
The discussions also highlighted Papua New Guinea's growing bilateral cooperation with fellow PNA members, including the Federated States of Micronesia, the Republic of the Marshall Islands, and Kiribati, aimed at strengthening commercial partnerships and supporting regional fisheries development.
Climate change and its increasing impact on tuna distribution, catch rates and fisheries revenues across the Western and Central Pacific featured prominently during the meeting. Both leaders acknowledged that changing ocean conditions are creating new challenges for Pacific Island countries and emphasised the importance of adaptive, science-based fisheries management to ensure the long-term sustainability of tuna resources.
Recognising that these challenges require a collective regional response, both leaders reaffirmed the importance of solidarity and cooperation among PNA members. They agreed that continued collaboration is essential to maintaining sustainable fisheries while maximising the long-term economic and social benefits derived from Pacific tuna resources.
The meeting also covered ongoing regional discussions on fisheries management arrangements, investment opportunities, and the future evolution of the Vessel Day Scheme.
Both leaders acknowledged the diverse national priorities of member countries and agreed that continued dialogue, innovation and collaboration will be critical to responding effectively to an evolving fisheries landscape while safeguarding the collective interests of the PNA membership.
Mr. Ilakini reaffirmed PNG's strong support for the PNA Office to continue leading regional commercial fisheries initiatives, recognising its proven track record in delivering tangible economic outcomes for member countries while working closely with regional fisheries partners.
In acknowledging Dr Clark's distinguished service, Mr Ilakini expressed his appreciation for her outstanding leadership in strengthening regional fisheries governance, economic cooperation and the collective voice of PNA member countries. He also extended an invitation to Dr Clark and the PNA delegation to attend a farewell dinner hosted by the National Fisheries Authority in recognition of their valued partnership and dedicated service to the region.
The meeting concluded with both leaders reaffirming their commitment to strengthening the partnership between the NFA and the PNA Office.
They expressed confidence that the strong foundation established over recent years will continue under future leadership, ensuring that Pacific tuna resources are sustainably managed and continue to deliver lasting economic and social benefits for the people of the Pacific.
