The preservation of fisheries stock will be closely monitored by the American Coast Guard Cutter Mellon.

They continue to patrol Fiji waters this week.

Coast Guard Cutter Mellon Commanding Officer, Stephen Burdian says this is part of the United States agreement with Fiji and 41 other countries through the Western and Central Pacific Fisheries Commission.

Burdian says they will work with the Navy as part of the bilateral agreement to ensure that the national strategies and priorities are maintained.

“We will patrol the high seas looking to make sure that we counter the threats for no co-trafficking in the area as well as illegal unreported and unregulated fisheries that are important to all our nations.”

He adds they will continue to collaborate with the Fiji Naval officers to undertake joint operations in the Exclusive Economic Zone in ensuring that all resources are protected.

The Coast Guard has 153 crew on board and will be leaving our shores on Friday.