A four-day discussion on ocean issues began today at the Pacific Islands Forum Secretariat.

The Pacific Ocean Alliance seeks to address gaps around the multiple aspects of integrated sustainable management, use, and conservation of the ocean and its resources by bringing stakeholders together.

It aims to provide effective ocean policy coordination and implementation, facilitate regional cooperation for high seas, as well as support national ocean governance and policy processes.

Deputy Secretary-General, Cristelle Pratt said there is a need to build appropriate frameworks that increase the chances of successful management of resources in an integrated and sustainable way.

The discussions will consist of workshops focusing on reviewing progress and strengthening reporting on sustainable development goal 14 – Life below Water, and development of the 2050 Strategy for the Blue Pacific Continent.

The workshops will also focus on formulating the Pacific Ocean Alliance for 2020.