United States, Fiji Discuss Fisheries Way Forward

The Charge d’ Affaires for the Embassy of the United States of America, Michael Gold­man, recognises the ongoing rela­tionship that our fisheries has with the United States.

He says they are adamant that they will work towards further de­velopment and collaboration.

In a courtesy visit on Tuesday to the Minister for Fisheries, Semi Ko­roilavesau, Mr Goldman discussed areas in which they would be able to assist the ministry.

Discussions also focused on US assistance through Quad Support (aerial and surface patrols) for sur­veillance.

Since Fiji is a signatory to the Ship Rider Agreement, discussions were also on the areas in which Fiji would need assistance not only in capacity-building and training but support of assets to conduct sur­face patrols in the internal and ar­chipelagic waters.

Mr Goldman said that the US is ready to support Fiji in areas of sustainable fisheries management and technical support and is open to discuss on areas of operation and assistance.

Mr Koroilavesau thanked the US government for their assistance and Fiji certainly welcomes their support and is also willing to assist the US in whatever way possible.

Mr Goldman was accompanied by Major Andrew Giesey who is the US Embassy Army Attache.

Source: Ministry of Fisheries