The United Nations conference in Lisbon, Portugal has officially commenced, with Jamaica being represented by Minister of Agriculture and Fisheries Pearnel Charles Jr., among other Ministers. The Minister is expected to engage in a series of discussions about proper management of marine spaces, and opportunities to develop the local fisheries sector. With Jamaica being a country that depends heavily on its marine space for a variety of reasons, Minister Pearnel Charles Jr. is stressing the importance of the UN Ocean Conference in achieving sustainable development for the ocean.
Charles Jr., who is currently representing Jamaica at the conference in Portugal, tells CVM Live the discussions are expected to narrow in on the international fisheries management, and the existing legal frameworks to protect the resource.
Charles Jr. Says the conference will be impactful to Jamaica as it will allow for collaboration with other countries and organizations, to help promote best practices and sustainability. He says by achieving this, the lives and livelihoods of fisher folk in Jamaica will be enhanced. He says by taking better care of the ocean, we are one step further to achieving food security, as many Jamaicans depend on the sea for food.
The Minister is expected to make his presentation on Wednesday.
Reporter: Velonique Bowen
