NARA, Seychelles Fisheries exchange expertise
by Mohammed Naalir
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Minister of Natural Resources and Industry of the Republic of
Seychelles, Peter Sinon exchanges the 5-year co-operation plan
with Dr. Sayuru Samarasundera, Chairman, NARA.
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The National Aquatic Resources Research and Development Agency (NARA)
has signed a joint agreement with the Seychelles Fisheries authorities
to exchange research programs, resources and expertise between the two
countries, NARA Chairman Dr. S.G. Samarasundera, told the Sunday
Observer .
Discussions were also held between NARA and Seychelles Fisheries
authorities to implement joint training programs utilising NARA's
research vessel RV Samuddrika and formulate a 5-year corporate plan on
aqua and mariculture beneficial to both countries, Dr. Samarasundera
said.
This follows a delegation from NARA led by Dr. Samarasundera to
Seychelles.
The Chairman said three senior scientists from NARA participated in
the mission and evaluated the suitability of various sites for aqua and
mariculture and suitable species. NARA scientists have indicated the
high potential of the sea cucumber industry in Seychelles and offered
support in technology transfer and training in breeding techniques to
the Seychelles researches.
The NARA team also visited the island of Coetivy and are now
preparing a plan to revamp shrimp farming and introduce poly culture
methods with sea cucumber. This would create employment for a large
number of Sri Lankans in the Seychelles in the years to come, Dr.
Samarasundera said.
Minister for Natural Resources and Industries in the Republic of
Seychelles, Peter Sinon conveyed his gratitude to Fisheries and Aquatic
Resources Development Minister Rajitha Senaratne for taking action to
expedite work on the joint agreement signed in October 2012.
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