‘We’re here to protect Oceania region’
Shiprider Agreement between US and Fiji will help crack down on transnational crimes like drug trafficking and unregulated fishing.
The United States Coast Guard Cutter
Munro is here on a mission – to protect the Pacific Ocean and its fisheries resources.
This is one of the core missions stated by Commanding Officer Captain Jim Estramonte on Friday during a press conference at the Kings Wharf in Suva.
The US Coast Guard arrived in Suva on Friday and is in the country until tomorrow. “To why we’re here, so far is to help build prosperity in the Oceania region,” Captain Estramonte said.
“As you all know the Pacific Ocean is home to many of the widest populations of fisheries and if gone unregulated then people can take advantage of it.
“We are here to work with Fiji to protect the Pacific Ocean.
“Our mission also is to help with the protection of the abundant fisheries and natural resources included in Fiji’s Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ),” Captain Estramonte said.
One hundred and fifty personnel are on board the vessel. The visit by the US coast guard is part of the Shiprider Agreement signed on November 12, 2018.
This agreement would enable our border security agencies intensify its efforts to provide better protection of the country’s borders from illicit maritime threats and transnational activities, with the assistance of the United States.
Former Minister for Defence and National Security Ratu Inoke Kubuabola and Acting US Ambassador Michael Goldman had signed the MoU.
It is understood that there will be further talks between the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and US Embassy to progressively pursue the country’s interest to enhance the collaboration through the State Partnership Programme.