FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
10 June 2026
RMI Assumes Chairmanship of PNA at Opening of 21st Ministerial Meeting
MAJURO, Republic of the Marshall Islands - The 21st Annual Ministerial Meeting of the Parties to the Nauru Agreement (PNAMIN21) officially opened today in Majuro, bringing together Fisheries Ministers, senior officials, and partners from across the Pacific to discuss the future of one of the world's most successful regional fisheries partnerships.
A key milestone of the opening ceremony was the formal handover of the PNA Chairmanship from the Republic of Kiribati to the Republic of the Marshall Islands. Honorable Anthony M. Muller, Minister of Natural Resources and Commerce, assumed the role of incoming Chair and outlined the Marshall Islands' priorities for the year ahead.
In his opening remarks, Minister Muller thanked the outgoing Chair, Honorable Ribanataake Tiwau of Kiribati, for his leadership and stewardship over the past year.
"PNA remains one of the world's most successful regional fisheries partnerships," Minister Muller said. "Through unity, innovation, and a shared commitment to sustainable management, we have strengthened our control over our tuna resources and increased the benefits flowing to our people."
Minister Muller noted that the Republic of the Marshall Islands assumes the Chair at a pivotal moment, as Pacific Island countries continue to navigate challenges including climate change, changing ocean conditions, evolving markets, and increasing demands for sustainability and traceability.
"Our task is clear: to safeguard the progress we have made, adapt to new challenges, and position PNA to deliver even greater benefits for future generations," he said.
Over the coming days, Ministers will consider key issues affecting the future of the PNA partnership, including fisheries management, market access, climate change, regional engagement, and institutional priorities.
Concluding his remarks, Minister Muller emphasized the importance of unity among PNA members. "The strength of PNA has never come from the size of our countries, but from our unity and our shared commitment to a common purpose."
PNAMIN21 will continue throughout the week with discussions aimed at strengthening the value, sustainability, and long-term benefits of Pacific tuna fisheries for future generations.