Moscow Accuses Norway of Violating Fisheries Accord
Moscow has condemned Norway’s decision as “a gross violation” of a longstanding fisheries agreement, warning that it could jeopardize future cooperation on marine resource management. The statement issued by the Russian Foreign Ministry on Tuesday highlighted concerns regarding the sustainability of fish stocks in the Barents and Norwegian Seas, reports 24brussels.
The Kremlin accused Oslo of undermining what it described as a “long-term effective system” for managing joint fish stocks, claiming Norway’s actions could disrupt broader fisheries collaboration.
The ministry emphasized that should Norway fail to adhere to the conditions outlined in the 1976 fisheries agreement, Russia will take necessary measures to safeguard its domestic fishing interests.
Norway’s Foreign Ministry has acknowledged that discussions were held on Tuesday between the Russian Foreign Ministry and Norway’s embassy in Moscow. A spokesperson indicated that the Russian side expressed dissatisfaction regarding Norway’s listing of the Russian firms Nordebo JSC and Murman Seafood.
“From the Norwegian side, we wish to continue our cooperation on fisheries management in the Barents Sea. At the same time, we stand together with our allies in Europe in responding to Russia’s war of aggression against Ukraine and its behavior toward NATO countries. The rules for Norwegian ports are determined by Norwegian authorities,” the spokesperson stated.
The strained relations between the two nations come amid rising tensions in the Arctic region, where both countries are seeking to assert their interests over rich marine resources. With geopolitical tensions on the rise due to the ongoing conflict in Ukraine, the potential for cooperation in fisheries could be further strained if diplomatic relations deteriorate.
Fish stocks in the North Atlantic are vital to both nations, and any disruption to management practices may lead to overfishing and depletion of resources. Norway, seen as a leader in sustainable fisheries management, has expressed its commitment to regional stability despite the ongoing political frictions.
In response to Russia’s accusations, Norwegian authorities reiterated their commitment to following international law and maintaining a sustainable fisheries management system in the Barents Sea.Fisheries management, marine resources, NATO countries, Arctic region, geopolitical tensions
As both countries navigate the complexities of their geopolitical landscape, the long-term implications for fisheries management remain uncertain, potentially impacting the economic interests and food security of both nations.
