FAO studying Kuwaiti initiative for developing fishery resources

The United Nations Food and Agricultural Organization (FAO) is studying a Kuwaiti-proposed initiative to cooperate with Iraq and Iran in developing fishery resources in northern Arab Gulf. In statements to Kuwait News Agency, Kuwait’s Permanent Representative to FAO Engineer Faisal Al-Hassawi said that he has recently invited to official meeting with Iraqi and Iranian counterparts to discuss thoroughly the initiative. He pointed these meetings were also attended by deputy managing director of FAO and several senior experts at the UN food organization. Al-Hassawi said that FAO has showed great interest in backing this initiative to bring it to light soon. He noted that three sides have agreed on seeking a USD 1 million-loan from the Islamic Development Bank to finance the project. He disclosed that the initiative, raised by Kuwait two years ago, is meant to increase fishery resources and protect marine beings. It also includes launching an information network to exchange data about the marine resources in the Gulf. Al-Hassawi revealed that the FAO will offer technical assistance to the three countries to help better implement the initiative.