Havana, September 4 (RHC)-- After the approval last July of the new Fisheries Law, Cuba is in the process of approving the rules and regulations that help the implementation of that legislation, said Iris Quiñones Rojas, Minister of the Food Industry.

During the inaugural session of the XVI Regular Meeting of the Commission for Small-scale, Artisanal and Aquaculture Fisheries for Latin America and the Caribbean, Quiñones Rojas explained that the country has been working in the context of a code of conduct for responsible fishing.

The minister said that a decree will be approved to implement the measures by the State aimed at preventing, discouraging and eliminating illegal, unreported and unregulated fishing,

Quiñones Rojas noted that fishing activity in Cuba is small-scale and, therefore, as endorsed by the new legislation is necessary to develop aquaculture, the main theme of the event.

Marcelo Resende, FAO’s representative in Havana told participants in the event the Caribbean island is an example in the public policy of aquaculture and artisanal fishing.

The UN official added that the country has very well organized this system and prioritizes small fish farmers, while noting that the passing of the fisheries law is  a very important step to grow and strengthen the sector in the country.

The XVI Ordinary Meeting of FAO’s regional commission for Small-scale, Artisanal and Aquaculture Fisheries will be held in Havana through Friday with the participation of delegates from 18 nations, who will discuss issues such as sustainable development in fisheries and the eradication of illegal fishing.