In his opening remarks, Fitial lauded the task force for its continued conservation efforts to protect the ocean’s coral reefs. “I continue to believe that through collective regional and international efforts, we are able to carry out our objectives and reap success,” said Fitial.
He noted that the CNMI, Guam, American Samoa, and Hawaii are also collaborating in the development of the Pacific’s Regional Ocean Partnership by developing a governance structure to implement the National Ocean Policy, developing a coastal and marine spatial plan and addressing critical ocean-related issues facing the Pacific Islands.
Fitial also highlighted the importance for the vast region to maintain and improve the health of ocean and coastal resources in order to sustain and manage the livelihood of the community and its resources.
He drew pleasantries when he touted the CNMI’s newly enacted prohibition on shark finning. “I strongly believe that the world-wide decimation of shark populations presents a large threat to oceanic ecosystems around the globe and we have now taken steps to ensure that not only are our local shark populations protected from these practices, but it also ensures that we are not supporting shark finning taking place in other parts of the world.
We hope that other jurisdictions will take similar steps to address this issue that affects the ocean we all rely on,” he stated.
Christine Dawson, director of ecology and natural resources conservation for the Department of State lauded Fitial and the leaders of the commonwealth for taking such bold and valiant steps to halt the practice of shark finning. She expressed hope that the increasing movement in the Pacific will soon be elevated to the national level as well.
