On 18 June 2018, Dr. Lev Neretin and Dr. LIU Ning of NOWPAP RCU met with Mr. Song Sam-jong, Director-General, Marine and Fisheries Bureau of Busan Metropolitan City. Dr. Neretin invited Marine and Fisheries Bureau to attend the NOWPAP marine litter workshop to be held in Dalian, China in September 2018. He also discussed the importance and NOWPAP interest in exploring news areas of cooperation with Busan Metropolitan City on the development of green port infrastructure, city-led ‘blue economy’ as well as inter-regional cooperation in the framework of the Association of North East Asia Regional Governments (NEAR) where Busan City is a member.
Mr. Song suggested that NOWPAP pays more attention in addressing the problem of discarded/lost fishing gear, deep sea garbage and improving the marine environment for the increased fish production. He pointed out that abandoned fishing gear can remain in oceans for a long period of time and there is a need for international cooperation in removing the discarded fishing gear. NOWPAP could play a role in addressing the issue.
NOWPAP RCU and Busan Metropolitan City agreed to continue exploring areas of mutual interest in environmental protection through information sharing and future joint activities.
Meeting with the Marine and Fisheries Bureau of Busan Metropolitan City (photo credit: Liu Ning)
