World Fishing
Russell Smith III of the US and Morocco’s Mme Zakia Driouich sign agreement. Photo: NOAA
The US and Morocco have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) this week which solidifies a commitment towards a ecosystem based approach to fisheries management and sustainable aquaculture practices.
The formal signing of the MoU took place in Agadir, Morocco and the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) signed on behalf of the US.
Monica Allen from NOAA, told World Fishing & Aquaculture: “The agreement is important because it demonstrates the important efforts by both countries to embrace modern principles of fisheries management. Joint projects already underway include a scientific experiment to test the use of buoy gear as an alternative to driftnets formerly used in Morocco’s swordfish fishery and an exchange of best practices in marine aquaculture.”
There are multiple reasons for cooperation between the two countries – first the US sees Morocco as a key ally in North Africa where both share access to migratory fishstocks – including North Atlantic swordfish.
And there are benefits for environmental cooperation also – protection laws and policies can be strengthened and effective enforcement may mean expanded trade fro both parties.
The MoU builds upon the 2004 US-Morocco Joint Statement on Environmental Cooperation. Related to the US-Morocco Free Trade Agreement.
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