[06/05/2026 05:31]

ADEN – SABA
The Minister of Agriculture, Irrigation, and Fisheries Salem al-Soqatri has emphasized the importance of transitioning toward sustainable development in the fisheries sector, considering it a key pillar for enhancing food security and supporting the national economy.

This came during his participation on Wednesday in an international virtual meeting dedicated to discussing the Sustainable Fisheries Development Project in the Red Sea and Gulf of Aden (SFISH 1), as well as preparations for launching the second phase of the project (SFISH 2).

The meeting reviewed the progress achieved in the first phase and the accomplishments made in cooperation with international and local partners, most notably the World Bank and the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), in coordination with the ministry.

These efforts included rehabilitating several fish landing centers, providing support to fishermen, strengthening monitoring systems, and implementing quality interventions to support value chains in the fisheries sector.

Minister al-Soqatri expressed his aspiration for the second phase of the project to include broader development priorities, with a focus on aquaculture projects based on modern models. He stressed the importance of reviving these initiatives due to their pivotal role in developing the sector in the coming phase.

He also highlighted the need to strengthen partnerships with development partners, including international organizations and donor agencies, and emphasized the importance of continuing fruitful cooperation with the World Bank and the UNDP.

Minister al-Soqari reviewed the key priorities for developing fisheries in the next phase, affirming the ministry’s commitment to incorporating them into support programs in the second phase of the project, in a way that ensures sustainability and enhances the sector’s contribution to the national economy.

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