The EU and Morocco have signed a sustainable fisheries partnership agreement, which aims to promote responsible fishing practices and the protection of marine ecosystems. The agreement is a major milestone for both parties, as it represents a shared commitment to sustainable development and the conservation of natural resources.
The EU-Morocco Sustainable Fisheries Partnership Agreement was signed on December 16, 2019, in Rabat, Morocco. The agreement is designed to promote sustainable fisheries in Moroccan waters, improve the livelihoods of local fishermen, and strengthen the bilateral relations between the EU and Morocco.
Under the agreement, the EU will pay Morocco an annual fee of €50 million for the right to fish in its waters. This fee will be used by the Moroccan authorities to support the improvement of their fisheries management systems, the development of the fishing sector, and the protection of marine biodiversity.
The agreement also includes a number of measures aimed at promoting sustainable fishing practices. For example, the EU and Morocco will work together to establish a scientific monitoring program to assess the state of fish stocks in Moroccan waters. They will also establish a system for monitoring and controlling catches to ensure that the fishing is sustainable.
The EU and Morocco will also work together to support the development of small-scale fishing communities, which are particularly vulnerable to the impacts of unsustainable fishing practices. This will include the development of training programs for local fishermen, the provision of technical assistance, and the promotion of alternative livelihoods.
The EU-Morocco Sustainable Fisheries Partnership Agreement is a major step towards promoting sustainable development and the conservation of natural resources. By working together to promote responsible fishing practices, the EU and Morocco are setting an example for other countries to follow.
In a world where marine ecosystems are under increasing stress from overfishing, pollution, and climate change, it is more important than ever to promote sustainable practices. The EU-Morocco Sustainable Fisheries Partnership Agreement is a positive step in this direction, and it is hoped that it will serve as a model for future agreements between countries committed to sustainable development and the protection of the environment.