Roseau, Dominica –February 15th, 2024: The Commonwealth of Dominica marked a notable achievement in international environmental and trade governance by officially submitting its Instrument of Acceptance of the Protocol Amending the Marrakesh Agreement Establishing the World Trade Organization (WTO), specifically the Agreement on Fisheries Subsidies.
The submission, signed by the Honourable Dr. Vince Henderson, Minister of Foreign Affairs,
International Business, Trade, and Energy was made to the WTO on Wednesday, February 14th. The agreement demonstrates Dominica’s dedication to sustainable fisheries management and its strategic approach to surmounting challenges in pursuit of sustainable development and international collaboration.
Acting High Commissioner of the Commonwealth of Dominica to the United Kingdom, Ms.
Janet Charles, who presented the signed Instrument, credited the success to the resolve and commitment of Dr. Vince Henderson, whose role was crucial in ensuring
Dominica’s compliance with its international obligations.
She said Dominica’s ratification of the Fisheries Agreement at the WTO clearly indicates the Government’s proactive stance on environmental stewardship and its active role in shaping global trade policies for the greater good.
“The Agreement signifies the high priority that the WTO and its Members place on
addressing the sustainability of our oceans. It is a major step towards the attainment of SDG 14.6. Dominica is the natural island of the Caribbean, and we pride ourselves on being a country that is in harmony with the environment. We believe in preserving both land and marine resources, for future generations,” Ms. Charles said, adding that the agreement was a continuation of Dominica’s effort to protect its marine spaces from the detrimental effects of unsustainable fisheries practices supported by subsidies.
She conveyed the regards of the Prime Minister Roosevelt Skerrit and the
Dr. Vince Henderson to the WTO, highlighting the commitment at the highest
government levels to adhere to international commitments.
Director-General of the World Trade Organization, Dr Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala commended
Dominica for its remarkable achievement despite its limited resources. Ambassador Colin Murdoch of Antigua & Barbuda and the Organisation of Eastern Caribbean States (OECS) Permanent Mission attended in a show of regional support for Dominica’s efforts.