Antigua and Barbuda’s Minister of State in the Ministry of Agriculture, Lands, Fisheries and the Blue Economy, Randy Baltimore, has participated in a Commonwealth discussion focusing on ocean conservation and the protection of marine resources.
Baltimore joined Tonga’s Prime Minister, Lord Fatafehi Fakafanua, during a panel discussion examining the environmental and economic challenges confronting small island states.
The discussion brought together marine conservation specialists, environmental stakeholders and representatives from across the Commonwealth.
During his contribution, Baltimore highlighted the pressures affecting Caribbean marine ecosystems, including overfishing, declining fish stocks and the difficulties associated with managing and protecting marine resources.
He also drew attention to the importance of protecting Antigua and Barbuda’s coastal environments, explaining that damage to marine ecosystems could negatively affect tourism, fishing communities and the livelihoods of residents who depend on the sea.
The minister emphasised that protecting marine environments is not simply an environmental responsibility but also an important part of maintaining economic stability.
He called for stronger cooperation between Commonwealth countries, particularly those facing similar challenges involving marine conservation and sustainable fisheries management.
Tonga’s Prime Minister also raised concerns about climate change and the potential consequences of rising global temperatures for vulnerable island nations.
The discussion highlighted the shared environmental challenges confronting Caribbean and Pacific countries and the importance of international partnerships in developing practical conservation solutions.
