Baltic States – CIS, EU – Baltic States, Legislation, Lithuania, Markets and Companies, Transport

Another topic addressed was the activities of the pelagic fleet in the waters of the African continent.

Commissioner Vella assured the agriculture minister that the European Commission was closely monitoring the story of the Lithuanian vessel and supported Lithuania's efforts to solve the situation as soon as possible. The commissioner informed the minister that the special meeting of the North East Atlantic Fisheries Commission (NEAFC) will take place in January. It will revise the coordinates of the territories under the supervision of the NEAFC and improve regulation procedures. The commissioner and the minister agreed to continue to actively share the latest information regarding this matter.

Speaking about the problems of the long-distance fishing, Baltraitiene noted that two-year fishing protocol between the EU and Mauritania expired on 15 December.

"EU pelagic fleet will incur great damages and will be forced to dock. Upkeep of each ship costs around EUR 70,000 per month," Minister Baltraitiene emphasised.

Mauritanian fish resources are one of the largest in the world and Lithuanian ships have been fishing there for around 40 years. More than a half of Lithuania's long-distance fishing catch comes from Mauritanian Exclusive Economic Zone.

Commissioner Vella reassured Baltraitiene that the European Commission understands the concern of the interested countries and is seeking to renew negotiations with Mauritania.