BY

CHAIRMAN INFOFISH

Bismillah-Ir-Rahman-Nir-Raheem

Dear officials from Member Countries and Infofish, Technical Officers, Fisheries Scientists, Observers, Distinguished Guests, Ladies and Gentlemen. Good morning, Good afternoon,

Good evening,

I would like to thank all the Members States and Observers for taking keen interest in 33rd Technical Advisory Meeting of Infofish. It has been a fruitful interaction in understanding the fisheries sector.

The workplan, which has been discussed and finalized during the meeting, will go a long way in analyzing the markets, supply chain, value addition, enhancing exports, dissemination of knowledge and addressing the problem of IUU Fishing. The Infofish will provide a springboard to the member countries in this regard. These interventions are cardinal in the backdrop of COVID-19. The challenge for Infofish and the members states is to mitigate the adverse impact of COVID-19 by coming together and finding a way forward and turning these adverse circumstances into opportunities.

As Chairman, I would like to acknowledge the hard work and efforts made by Director Infofish and her team in organizing this virtual meeting and making adjustments in the wake of COVID-19 by arranging webinars to keep the member countries aware in this changed environment. I would also like to thank and congratulate Mr. Kusuadi Sallih, Deputy Director General, Development Authority of Malaysia for chairing the 33rd meeting of Infofish Technical & Advisory Board Meeting.

In the end, I would like to thank all the Member Countries and Observers for sparing their precious time and valuable input during the meeting. I also wish the participants good luck in their future endeavors. Together we will make this forum stronger and effective.

Stay blessed - Stay safe

Thank you

RIZWAN AHMED

Chairman Infofish/ Federal Secretary, Ministry of Maritime Affairs

Government of Pakistan