Minister of State in the Ministry of Agriculture and the Blue Economy, Randy Baltimore, is calling for deeper collaboration among OECS countries to maximize the benefits of the Blue Economy. Minister Baltimore made this call during his participation in a panel discussion on ‘Strengthening Regional and Extra Regional Cooperation to Enhance the Promotion of Management, Development, and Sustainable Use of Living Aquatic Resources.’
The panel discussion was part of the 24th Eastern Caribbean Ministerial Meeting on Fisheries and the Sustainable Use of Living Aquatic Resources held in St. George’s, Grenada. In his presentation, the Minister highlighted the emergence of the Blue Economy as a critical sector for the development of OECS economies. He stated, ‘The OECS should speak with one voice when engaging international partners on matters related to the Blue Economy. As SIDS, we share similar challenges and therefore should address them collectively to devise solutions for the greater development of our countries.’
Minister Baltimore also addressed issues related to Sargassum affecting the region and commended the Government of Japan for its recent donation of an Aquatic Harvester to Antigua and Barbuda. He called for further research to devise effective solutions to tackle the issue, which has adversely affected the livelihoods of many within the region.