Cook Islands and FFA renew aerial surveillance partnership to strengthen fisheries monitoring

The Cook Islands has reinforced its commitment to safeguarding its marine resources by renewing its aerial surveillance partnership with the Pacific Islands Forum Fisheries Agency (FFA). This renewed collaboration under the Regional Aerial Surveillance Programme (ASP) aims to bolster maritime surveillance and protect the nation's valuable fisheries.

Minister of Marine Resources Tingika Elikana signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the FFA, which renews the framework for implementing the ASP within the Cook Islands’ Exclusive Economic Zone. The program utilizes specially equipped aircraft and trained personnel to conduct aerial patrols. These patrols are crucial for monitoring fishing activities, identifying illegal, unreported, and unregulated (IUU) fishing, and gathering intelligence for national monitoring, control, and surveillance operations.

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This agreement ensures we retain access to vital aerial surveillance capability that strengthens our ability to monitor our waters, deter illegal activity, and protect the long-term sustainability of our marine resources.

Since first joining the program in 2021, the renewed MoU ensures the Cook Islands continues to benefit from vital aerial surveillance capabilities. The data collected directly supports national fisheries monitoring and enforcement efforts, enhancing situational awareness, informing risk assessments, and guiding the strategic deployment of surface patrol assets. Minister Elikana stated that the agreement underscores the nation's dedication to sustainable ocean management and highlights the importance of regional cooperation in protecting its maritime domain.

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It reinforces our commitment to responsible ocean stewardship and demonstrates the value of strong regional partnerships delivering practical outcomes for the Cook Islands and the wider Pacific.