In order to eliminate illegal undeclared and unregulated fishing, the Panama Maritime Authority (AMP) and the Panama Aquatic Resources Authority (ARAP) signed a Framework Cooperation Agreement to strengthen the mechanisms of joint collaboration.
The agreement contemplates the adoption of effective measures and controls, as well as the exchange of information, experiences and knowledge on inspections of Panamanian flag vessels in the domestic or international service that are engaged in fishing activities, transport and / or transshipment of aquatic resources and support for these vessels.
Both institutions undertake to adopt effective measures and controls on ships that have committed an infringement or are in the investigation phase for committed violations and as actions and omissions to the applicable rules.
This measure applies to boats that disobey inspection orders, to those with serious offenses that hinder their withdrawal from the registry for legal reasons, and those involved in possible illegal fishing activities.
According to the General Administrator of the AMP, Luis Roquebert, they must be aligned in their public policies and therefore they are signing an agreement with clear rules.
“During the next 5 years we will work together and in coordination, respecting the regulations and laws signed by both entities for the benefit of the country and its exit from the lists where they keep us,” said Roquebert.
Meanwhile, the General Administrator of the ARAP, Eduardo Carrasquilla, indicated that both entities begin a new stage of opportunities to demonstrate Panama’s faithful compliance with all international provisions in maritime matters.
“One of the country’s goals is to achieve, by 2025, the green card of the European Union, which certifies that we are cooperative and actively combating illegal fishing in all seas,” Carrasquilla said.
He added that they will strengthen the surveillance and monitoring controls, they will also apply the measures of the Governing State of Ports, of the Pavilion and of all the international measures developed by the country strategy.