Brussels: The European Union (EU) and the Cook Islands have signed a new protocol to extend their sustainable fisheries partnership agreement for the period of 2025 to 2032. This agreement provides EU vessels with access to the Cook Islands’ waters, which are known for having some of the world’s healthiest tuna stocks, allowing for a total of 40 fishing days annually.
According to Cyprus News Agency, the renewed protocol will deliver £3.22 million in EU financial support over the seven-year period. This funding aims to enhance the Cook Islands’ sustainable fisheries management, control, and surveillance capacities, as well as to support its blue economy initiatives.
The partnership emphasizes the commitment of both parties to sustainable fisheries and economic development. As members of the Western and Central Pacific Fisheries Commission (WCPFC), both the EU and the Cook Islands strive to maintain a balance between environmental protection and viable fishing opportunities, ensuring the long-term health of marine ecosystems.
Costas Kadis, Commissioner for Fisheries and Oceans, expressed the significance of the agreement, noting that EU partnership agreements are globally recognized as benchmarks for good fisheries governance. The renewal of the fisheries protocol allows EU vessels to continue fishing in one of the healthiest tropical tuna stocks, while also supporting the development of the Cook Islands’ fisheries sector and blue economy through sectoral support.
The new protocol is set to provisionally apply from December 9, 2025, enabling EU fishing activities in the Cook Islands’ waters. It will officially come into effect once ratified by both parties, with the EU requiring the consent of the European Parliament.