Limassol: Cyprus and Limassol will host for the first time the annual meeting of the International Commission for the Conservation of Atlantic Tunas (ICCAT) from November 11 to 18. ICCAT, a regional fisheries organization established in 1969, focuses on the conservation and management of tunas and related species across the Atlantic Ocean and its adjacent areas, including the Mediterranean and Black Seas.
According to Cyprus News Agency, the Commission currently comprises 53 Contracting Parties, including the European Union (EU), which represents Cyprus and other EU Member States. ICCAT also includes Member States of the United Nations and other specialized organizations. During the annual meetings, representatives discuss and decide on crucial issues related to the conservation and management of tuna and related species, such as swordfish. These discussions include examining scientific data and proposals to promote sustainable fishing practices and allocate fishing quotas among member states. Decisions are
also made to implement and strengthen measures ensuring the protection of marine ecosystems and the well-being of managed species populations.
The Ministry stated that the upcoming ICCAT meeting in Cyprus expects around 500 participants from all Contracting Members, along with Members of the European Parliament’s Committee on Fisheries. This event will significantly enhance Cyprus’s international recognition, strengthen the local market, and promote the Cypriot tourist sector.
The opening meeting on November 11 will feature notable attendees, including Charlina Vitcheva, Director General of the Directorate-General for Maritime Policy and Fisheries (DG MARE) of the European Commission, Dr. Maria Panayiotou, Minister of Agriculture, Rural Development and Environment, and Yiannis Armeftis, Mayor of Limassol. The Minister of Agriculture, on behalf of the President of the Republic of Cyprus, will address the meeting, followed by speeches from the DG MARE Director General and the Mayor of Limassol.
Hosting this
international meeting, organized by the Department of Fisheries and Marine Research of the Ministry of Agriculture, Rural Development and Environment, is considered an honor for Cyprus. It will contribute substantially to the successful completion of the Commission’s work and strengthen international cooperation for the sustainable management of marine resources, as concluded in the press release.