Fisheries and Aquaculture competitiveness in ACP countries will receive a strong boost from an Intra-ACP allocation of the European Development Fund (EDF) aimed at enhancing the key role that Fisheries and Aquaculture could play in social and economic development across African, Caribbean and Pacific countries. It is well recognized that Fisheries and Aquaculture make a significant positive contribution to employment creation, revenue generation, and food security- all of which are crucial for the achievement of the Sustainable Development Goals, especially SDG14 on Oceans, Seas and Marine Resources.

The ACP Group joins the world in mourning the loss of Kofi Annan, one of the great peacemakers of the 20^th century and a global statesman.

His outstanding leadership was a source of great inspiration to all our 79 Member States.  Our condolences go out to his family, the government and people of Ghana, for giving to the world so great a son, brother and friend to all humanity.