For this reason, the owner of MARM has stated that "the Spanish government continues to detail the negotiations and EU agreements with countries that may be competitors of the Spanish industry."
Ms Aguilar said that "we will not allow third country agreements to endanger the creation of jobs in this industry." Currently, 46,000 jobs, directly and indirectly, are linked to this sector.
Regarding the reform of the Common Fisheries Policy, the Minister argued that it should be based on the principles of environmental, economic and social development, and have an aim of guaranteeing future employment for the fisheries sector.
In the context of the CFP reform, Ms Aguilar stressed the importance for Spain, the external dimension of EU policy, through agreements with third countries and the willingness of the Government that "trade policy is reflected in the documents of the reform to ensure transparency and equity in social and environmental conditions between the EU and third countries."
In addition, Ms Aguilar stressed the Government of Spain is committed to a World Trade Organisation idea of a reform in the EU market "that enhances the roles and responsibilities of professional associations, with special emphasis on inter-branch organisations and Fish Producers Organisations."
In this regard, she commended the Inter Tuna "INTERATN" as "a pioneer of these fisheries organisations in Spain and whose work for the improvement of the tuna industry is well known."
Finally, the Minister has emphasised that since the MARM will face the CFP reform, "defending the interests of the fishing fleet and its processing industry in all EU and international forum."
Tuna Is A 'Sensitive' Project Says Minister
SPAIN - The Minister for Environment and Rural and Marine Affairs, Rosa Aguilar, commented that tuna "is a sensitive product and is linked to a key strategic industry" in the opening ceremony of the V World Conference of Tuna "Tuna 2011" which was organised by ANFACO, held in Vigo.
