Let us work together to ensure we preserve and protect the Pacific Ocean’s rich heritage for our children, Director for Fisheries Neomai Ravitu said.

Ms Ravitu made the comments while addressing the participants of the inaugural Pacific Islands Conference on Ocean Science and Ocean Management at the Tanoa International Hotel, Nadi yesterday.

The event gathered more than 200 delegates from around the world including scientists, technical experts, policymakers, early-career ocean professionals, and custodians of traditional knowledge to discuss and address vital issues concerning the Pacific Ocean.

Based on the theme “An Ocean of Knowledge for our Sea of Islands”, Ms Ravitu said that the Pacific Ocean transcends national boundaries.

She reminded participants of the shared responsibility of looking after the Pacific Ocean.

“We must unite as stakeholders, fostering collaboration, investing in research, and taking concrete steps to safeguard the Pacific Ocean for the prosperity of future generations,” Ms Ravitu said.

Pollution has been found on the beaches as it washes ashore from the ocean affecting our marine life.

“Our actions here will resonate far beyond our shores, impacting the health of our oceans and the well-being of future generations.”

She added the Pacific Ocean, often referred to as the ‘Blue Heart of our Planet,’ is not just a source of boundless beauty, but it is also the lifeblood of our region.

“It has shaped and sustained our cultures and traditions, economies, and ecosystems for two generations, providing us with food, livelihoods, and a unique way of life.

“Our ‘blue heart’ is also now confronted with unprecedented challenges, including climate change, overfishing, pollution, and habitat destruction.

The very life force that has sustained us for centuries is now in peril.

“In the face of these challenges, we have not only a momentous responsibility but also a solemn duty to act as stewards of this remarkable natural heritage.

Pollution has been found on the beaches as it washes ashore from the ocean affecting our marine life.

It is incumbent upon us, as inhabitants of the Pacific, as well as global citizens, to come together and forge a path toward a sustainable and resilient future for our oceans.”

Pacific Ocean Commissioner Dr Filimoni Manoni said the conference not only marked a significant milestone, but also a pivotal moment in the collective commitment to understanding and safeguarding the vast and invaluable marine ecosystems that surround and sustain us.

Head of the Pacific Community Centre for Ocean Science Jerome Aucan said: “This is an unprecedented opportunity for stakeholders across the Pacific to come together and address pressing ocean-related challenges.

“This conference will focus on solutions and the science we need for the ocean we want for future generations.”

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