Fiji, Dec. 2 -- Papua New Guinea has delivered a strong message to WCPFC22, warning that Pacific nations cannot absorb new burdens, lose hard-won rights, or accept decisions that undermine their development aspirations.

"For us, our fisheries are not just a sector -they are lifelines. They fund schools, clinics, and infrastructure. They also sustain our people's livelihoods and cultural identity," said Jelta Wong, PNG's Minister for Fisheries and Marine Resources.

Wong said PNG stands with Pacific countries in pushing for sustainable management grounded in science, equity, and the rights of Small Island Developing States.

Wong warned that increasing complexity in Commission rules risks sidelining the very States that depend most on tun...