OMAN Launch of the Fisheries Resources Survey Programme in the Arabian Sea and the Sea of Oman on the Research Vessel Dr. Fridtjof Nansen Speech

Your Excellency the Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Water Resources of Oman,

Your Excellencies the representatives of the Government of Norway,

Ladies and Gentlemen,

Dear Colleagues,

I am so pleased to join you here at Muscat Port on the Nansen Research Vessel to celebrate the launch of the Fisheries Resources Assessment Programme in the Arabian Sea and the Sea of Oman.

Today’s launch reflects our shared commitment to healthy oceans, strong science, and sustainable fisheries.

It highlights the importance of ocean governance, regional cooperation, and the blue economy.

And it recognizes the strong partnership between FAO, Oman and Norway, and with the many scientific partners working together through the Nansen Programme - one of the world's longest-running fisheries development initiatives.

The history of the vessel is tied to the Nansen Programme, launched in 1975 as a partnership between FAO, the Norwegian Agency for Development Cooperation, and Norway's Institute of Marine Research. 

For five decades, these ships have served as floating laboratories, conducting scientific surveys in over 60 countries across Africa, Asia, and Central and South America, and generating critical long-term data on marine ecosystems.

The work of the Nansen Research Vessel is one of the fundamental parts of the FAO's mission of achieving food security and sustainable fisheries management.

FAO’s work is guided by our commitment to transform agrifood systems to be more efficient, more inclusive, more resilient, and more sustainable for the Four Betters: better production, better nutrition, a better environment, and a better life - leaving no one behind.

FAO's Blue Transformation is an integral part of this vision, highlighting that aquatic food systems can play an even greater role in providing accessible and affordable foods, improving diets, supporting livelihoods, and driving sustainable economic growth, especially for coastal communities.

By gathering critical data on fish stocks, ocean health, and the impacts of the climate crisis, the programme directly contributes to international frameworks like the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), in particular SDG 14 (Life Below Water).

Oman is already a regional leader in fisheries and ocean stewardship.

It ranks among the top thirty fish producers in the world, with production having increased rapidly over the last decade, demonstrating capacity and ambition.

Furthermore, the fisheries sector in Oman is increasingly important for food security, employment, well-being, and economic diversification strategies.

Through the ambitions of the “Oman Vision 2040”, the sustainable management of the country’s rich marine resources becomes increasingly more relevant.

This is why the upcoming mission of the research vessel is so significant and timely.

It represents one of the most comprehensive scientific assessments ever undertaken in this region, with a focus on monitoring, good data, and informed decision making.

The Nansen vessel will spend 236 days at sea this year, gathering knowledge that will help Oman protect and develop its marine resources for decades to come.

Ladies and Gentlemen,

Last year, we celebrated the 50th anniversary of the Nansen Programme, a milestone that reflects the strength of long-standing cooperation between FAO, Norway, and over 30 country programme partners.

The work ahead will truly be a joint effort.

The surveys will be carried out with the close involvement of the Institute of Marine Research of Norway, FAO technical experts, and Oman’s scientific teams under the central leadership of the Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries and Water Resources.

The mission will deepen national understanding of fish resources, marine ecosystems, and environmental conditions in Omani waters.

A powerful and inspiring aspect of this mission is also its contribution to South-South and Triangular Cooperation.

Throughout the year, 120 African scientists trained under the Nansen Programme will join the surveys. Their participation brings valuable expertise and demonstrates the benefits of knowledge sharing.

Dear Colleagues,

The Dr Fridtjof Nansen is more than just a research ship – it is a platform for international collaboration that turns marine science into tangible action for sustainable fisheries and food security.

The ocean connects us all.

It is our shared heritage, and our shared responsibility.

Only by working together can we succeed in safeguarding marine ecosystems, and ensure that the benefits of ocean resources are shared widely by all, and sustainably.

FAO has been working closely with Members and partners for food security and for a better future.

Thank you.