CENTRAL AMERICA AND CARIBBEAN AGREE ON INTERREGIONAL FISHERIES

Belmopan, September 5 (PL)- Central America and Caribbean countries signed in Belize a memorandum of understanding to promote cooperation and policies coordination on sustainability of fisheries and marine ecosystems in the region.

During the meeting started Monday in the capital, representatives of 25 nations approved an action plan and a strategy for collaboration among participating organizations, reported the Caribbean Regional Fisheries Mechanism (CRFM).

According to the statement, participants also discussed issues related to fisheries and issues related to border surveillance mechanisms to prevent illegal, unreported or unregulated fishing.

They also discussed the impacts of climate change on marine ecosystems and fishing communities, as well as a coordinated approach to invasive species, including lionfish.

The meeting was attended by States members or associates of the Caribbean Community (CARICOM), CRFM, and the Organization of Fisheries and Aquaculture of Central America.

This meeting was one of the results of the third summit between CARICOM and the Central American Integration System, held in El Salvador in August, 2012.

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