Regional cooperation takes centre stage in FFA DG’s address to 19th Micronesian Presidents’ Summit

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Published: Tuesday, 19 March 2019 06:43

Written by Bill Jaynes

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Pacific Islands Forum Fisheries Agency

22 February 2019

KOROR, Palau – FFA Director General, Dr Manu Tupou-Roosen has made her inaugural address to the 19th Micronesian Presidents’ Summit, with a commitment that the FFA will build mechanisms for closer cooperation between FFA Members.

“Bringing our people together, to achieve together, is the power of cooperation,” Dr Tupou-Roosen told Micronesian presidents and leaders attending the Summit.  “To embrace cooperation, to listen and consult with our Members is at the forefront of what we do.”

However, Dr Tupou-Roosen signalled that one of her priorities as Director General is to develop mechanisms that will lift cooperation between FFA Members, as a platform for ensuring economic returns on fishing are maximised and social benefits for local communities are improved.

“Throughout 2019, the FFA will actively consider how our stakeholders can dialogue with each other more regularly and effectively,” Dr Tupou Roosen said.

“I would also like the FFA to bring a wider lens to discussions on key regional issues. Fisheries policies don’t sit in isolation but are part of the broader geopolitical landscape so we need to use our influence to drive progress on issues such as food security, addressing NCDs, mitigating the effects of climate change and alleviating poverty,” Dr Tupou Roosen added.

The Summit discussed issues surrounding climate change, fisheries and NCDs, among others. It was also an opportunity to promote the FFA’s 40th anniversary, which will be celebrated with a programme of activities, to be announced shortly.

The Micronesian Presidents’ Summit is an annual gathering of the presidents and leaders of Palau, Federated States of Micronesia, Federated States of Micronesia, Nauru and Kiribati. This year it was hosted by Palau from February 20-21.