Brussels, 14/10/2014 (Agence Europe) -At a fourth round of talks on renewing the protocol to the fishing partnership agreement, in Brussels on Thursday 9 and Friday 10 October, the EU and the Islamic Republic of Mauritania were unable to reach agreement on a number of points, including the EU's financial contribution. They decided, therefore, to suspend the discussions to “enable both parties to make the necessary internal consultations”, the Commission has revealed in a press release. The current protocol expires in November 2015.
Based on the available “surplus” (in terms of fish resources) identified by the Joint Scientific Committee, and to ensure sustainable exploitation of stocks, the EU is seeking to reduce the level of fishing opportunities for small pelagics and the corresponding financial contributions that go along with them. This reduction is further justified by the level of small pelagic catches in the current protocol. Furthermore, aware of the “new strategic direction of Mauritania”, the EU is ready to substantially increase its financial support to the Mauritanian fisheries sector. The EU has expressed its willingness to continue the dialogue with Mauritania in order to reach a mutually satisfactory compromise and forge a long-lasting partnership. (LC)