President Delivers Historic Opening Remarks at Regional Fisheries Compliance Meeting in Pohnpei

POHNPEI, FSM – Marking a historic moment for regional ocean governance, President Wesley Simina of the Federated States of Micronesia delivered the opening address at the 22nd Regular Session of the Technical and Compliance Committee (TCC) of the Western and Central Pacific Fisheries Commission (WCPFC). This marks the first time an FSM President has officially addressed this crucial technical gathering.

In his opening speech, the President welcomed international delegates to Pohnpei and underscored the immense responsibility the region carries in managing global tuna resources.

Key Points from the President’s Address:

• Economic and Social Impact: The President highlighted that the 2024 tuna catch in the Western and Central Pacific exceeded 2.5 million tons, valued at $4.8 billion, with nearly half harvested from coastal states' Exclusive Economic Zones (EEZs). He stressed that behind these numbers are real communities, livelihoods, and food security depending on sustainable management.
• Maintaining Momentum: While scientific assessments confirm that principal tuna stocks in the region remain healthy and sustainable, the President warned against complacency. He noted that a good "report card" is a call for continuous improvement and vigilant protection.
• A Collaborative Approach to Compliance: Emphasizing a shift in perspective, the President stated that compliance should not merely be a mechanism for "finding fault". Instead, it should serve as a collaborative space where members help one another meet rules and overcome administrative and technical difficulties.
• Strengthening Small Island Developing States (SIDS): The President emphasized that supporting SIDS through capacity building, practical systems, and financial resources isn't just assistance – it is an investment that strengthens the entire regional management framework.
• Adapting to Emerging Threats: Pointing to climate change and shifting ocean conditions, he urged the commission to keep management systems adaptive, practical, and grounded in sound science.

Summary of the President's Message

Overall, the President’s groundbreaking remarks shifted the tone of the compliance meeting from rigid oversight to constructive regional partnership. By framing tuna compliance as a matter of shared heritage, economic survival, and mutual support- he emphasized that reinforcing the capacity of Small Island Developing States ultimately protects the entire Pacific ocean for future generations. Concluding his remarks, the President invoked the "Pacific Way"- a commitment to mutual respect, listening, and finding collective solutions - before declaring the TCC session officially open.

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