The meeting, co-organized by the Sasakawa Peace Foundation and the Nippon Foundation, aims to develop a maritime perspective and promote international cooperation and partnership for the preservation and security of the Pacific seas.
Palau was represented by President Johnson Toribiong; Federated States of Micronesia was represented by Secretary of Transportation, Communication and Infrastructure Francis Itimai, Japan was represented by CDR Yuichi Motoyama, US was represented by Ambassador Helen Reed-Rowe, and Australia was represented by Nicholas Coppel.
“As island nations, we look at the ocean as sustenance for our livelihood,” Toribiong said during his opening remarks. “In Palau we take proactive actions to save and protect our marine resources.”
He said one of his main goals is to maximize the benefits derived from marine resources in Palau to ensure that the country sustains it for future generations.
“I ask the cooperation of the delegation to help maintain sustainability of our resources, and I ask your support in the issue of maritime surveillance,” Toribiong further said.
According to Yohei Sasakawa, Chairman of the Nippon Foundation, “The seas around Micronesia are rich in marine resources that have blessed local people since ancient times. However, increases in illegal fishing by foreign vessels and in over-fishing are giving rise to serious concerns regarding the depletion of marine resources.”
Pollution from industrial waste and illegal dumping also has serious effects on the marine environment, as well as accidents, smuggling and other illegal activities.
“These problems not only undermine the peace and prosperity of the Micronesian nations, but also threaten the livelihood of their citizens,” Sasakawa added. “No one country acting alone can resolve these problems.”
Hence, it is importance for relevant countries and institutions to work together to protect the marine resources in this region, he added.
“Following the establishment of this committee, the co-chair person’s summary statement was issued at the 1st International Collaborative Committee held in Tokyo this March, and a summary statement was issued at the 2nd International Collaborative Committee in Guam this June. As a result, collaboration has begun between related countries and institution,” Sasakawa explained.
The representatives of the six countries, as well as the two NGOs, have shared ideas, knowledge and insights during the meeting.
Sasakawa said the Nippon Foundation will cooperate fully with the constructive approaches that come out of the meeting.
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