Hanoi: Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh chaired the 20th session of the National Steering Committee on Combating Illegal, Unreported, and Unregulated (IUU) Fishing in Hanoi on November 4. The meeting was connected online to 21 coastal provinces and cities.

According to Vietnam News Agency, the session focused on devising strategies to eliminate illegal fishing activities that have been affecting the country’s marine resources. The Prime Minister emphasized the urgency of implementing effective measures to combat IUU fishing, which not only threatens marine ecosystems but also impacts the livelihoods of communities dependent on fishing.

The committee discussed various initiatives to enhance monitoring and enforcement activities across Vietnam’s coastal regions. Attendees included representatives from local governments and relevant agencies who shared insights and progress on anti-IUU efforts in their respective areas. The Prime Minister urged participants to strengthen collaboration and ensure strict adherence to international standards and agreements related to sustainable fishing practices.

The meeting also highlighted the importance of technological integration in surveillance and data collection to better track fishing activities. By leveraging modern technology, authorities aim to improve the detection and prevention of illegal fishing operations. The Prime Minister called for increased public awareness and education programs to foster a culture of responsible fishing among local communities.

This session marks a continued commitment by Vietnamese authorities to tackle illegal fishing and safeguard the nation’s marine biodiversity. The government remains focused on creating a sustainable environment for future generations by addressing the challenges posed by IUU fishing.