The Minister of Agriculture, Food and Environment, Miguel Arias Cañete, has stressed that fisheries policy is a priority of the Spanish Government, which is trying to appear serious and responsible in the fisheries sector.
Miguel Arias Cañete made the statement during the inauguration of the new director general of Fisheries Management, Andres Hermida, which highlighted his extensive experience and great ability to solve problems.
During his speech, Mr Arias Cañete pointed out the major challenges facing the government in regard to the Spanish fishing sector, such as the reform of the Common Fisheries Policy, the negotiation of international fisheries agreements, the control responsible for fishing activity and the reorganisation of the national fishing grounds.
The minister indicated that the reform of the Common Fisheries Policy will requires many changes for the Spanish fleet. To do this, Mr Arias Cañete stressed that Spain is seeking strategic alliances with other countries to put together new proposals.
In addition, Mr Arias Cañete stressed the importance of working in the European Parliament.
In relation to international fisheries agreements, the minister stated that during his recent visit to Morocco: “I have seen the political will of Morocco to conclude a fisheries agreement quickly.” Mr Arias Cañete stressed the high degree of understanding between the Spanish and Moroccan fisheries sector. “There are no technical difficulties that impede the rapid conclusion of an agreement,” he assured.
On international agreements, the minister also stated that next May he will travel to Mauritania to “facilitate the task of negotiating the European Commission and find that the Mauritanian government is sensitive to the importance for Spain.”
Finally, Mr Arias Canete said that the Government will be working on the restructuring of the national fishing grounds in order to “control responsible fishing and ensure that Spain is seen as being serious and responsible.”
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