Salalah: The Regional Commission for Fisheries (RECOFI) concluded its 13th session, hosted by the Sultanate of Oman through the Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries, and Water Resources in Salalah. The commission issued several recommendations and resolutions aimed at enhancing the sustainability of the fisheries and aquaculture sectors in the region.
According to Oman News Agency, the recommendations included a call to support the commission and increase engagement with its work and activities. The body also approved the development of a new website to serve as a regional database and information resource for member states. Additionally, it recommended integrating climate change into national aquaculture programs and plans and establishing guidelines to support them within the commission’s member states.
The commission also recommended creating national liaison points to combat illegal fishing, updating research templates for priority species, and participating in the regional scientific review expert team. It further called for strengthening institutional cooperation between regional and international organizations to achieve sustainable fish resources.
The commission announced the election of Dr. Abdulaziz bin Said Al Marzouqi, Director General of Fisheries Resources Development at the Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries, and Water Resources, as the new RECOFI Chairman in recognition of his contributions to developing the marine fisheries sector and promoting sustainable fish resources.