Represented by a delegation from the Ministry of Fisheries and Ocean Resources, Maldives participated in the Indian Ocean Tuna Commission (IOTC) meeting in Bangkok, Thailand.
During the five-day session, Maldives will advocate for member states to prioritise the sustainability of tuna stocks in the Indian Ocean. Key agenda items include urging the adoption of robust management measures for drifting Fish Aggregating Devices (FADs) and shark conservation. Additionally, Maldives will push for the adoption of a management procedure for skipjack tuna.
Maldives aims for the IOTC to lead Regional Fisheries Management Organisations (RFMOs) in adopting science-based conservation and management measures. The commitment reflects the nation's dedication to the well-being of coastal communities and the health of tuna stocks.
The IOTC serves as an intergovernmental organisation tasked with managing tuna and tuna-like species in the Indian Ocean.