Lebanon's Agriculture Ministry Intensifies Campaign to Safeguard Marine Resources

The Lebanese Ministry of Agriculture has launched an initiative to confiscate fishing nets and traps used in practices that deplete marine ecosystems. The effort aims to curb destructive fishing methods, restore fish populations, and strengthen food security while ensuring the livelihoods of fishing communities remain sustainable.

Minister of Agriculture Dr. Nizar Hani highlighted the collaborative approach driving the initiative, noting that "partnership with the sector is the basic foundation for the success of national efforts aimed at protecting marine wealth."

The minister expressed gratitude toward the fishing community and their unions for their support of the enforcement measures. He also acknowledged the Lebanese Army and security forces for their ongoing assistance to the Ministry's operational teams, describing their coordination as "a successful model of integration between national institutions in implementing laws and preserving natural resources."

Hani emphasized that the Ministry intends to maintain its regulatory and supervisory programs targeting the marine fishing sector. These efforts will be complemented by awareness campaigns and continued engagement with fishermen to establish responsible fishing practices and safeguard fish stocks as a critical national asset.

The minister underscored that marine conservation transcends any single institution, framing it instead as "a shared national responsibility that requires the combined efforts of the state, fishermen and society." He stressed that adherence to legal frameworks and sustained cooperation are fundamental to ensuring marine resources endure for both current and future generations.