Norwegian Ambassador to Sri Lanka Trine Jøranli Eskedal noted that Norwegian assistance to develop a sustainable fisheries sector would be forthcoming alongside the global and European initiative to make more sustainable usage of ocean resources.
Eskedal was speaking on March 25 at the Cinnamon Lakeside Hotel at the 28th Annual Award Ceremony of the Chartered Shipbrokers (UK), Sri Lanka branch. Eskedal noted Sri Lanka’s broad global geopolitical play in expanding its continental shelf. It also noted that issues surrounding the Indian Ocean resources were less heated than in other regions.European nation-states have gotten together to form the Ocean Panel with 14 member states wherein Norway plays a leading role. They aim to manage their shared ocean resources sustainably by 2025. The mentioned ocean resources account for some of the busiest shipping and fishing resources on the planet.
Eskedal said, “Oceans divide us but also unite us. We need a scientific approach alongside international collaboration to save our oceans. Oceans are a common good.” Sri Lanka being an island has a large exclusive economic zone. Services to shipping and other ocean-related activity provide considerable revenues to Sri Lankan businesses. Norway and Sri Lanka have met to discuss bilateral cooperation in the fisheries sector. Further, Norway is looking at funding the policy strategy for Sri Lanka’s fisheries management. This financing is to include private sector assistance alongside policy formulation assistance. Eskedal stressed the importance of ocean biodiversity and noted that the younger generations were increasingly motivated to protect future resources.
Eskedal noted that Sri Lanka’s ocean had historically played a major role in its sovereignty and independence and that future ocean policy would play a big role in the country’s position globally.Ports Authority Chairman Dr Prasantha Jayamanna noted that it was paramount that more stakeholders come together to build consensus to develop a coherent oceans policy. Jayamanna was happy to see increasing collaboration between academia and the private sector.
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