The European Union has re-launched its monitoring and cooperation activities with Guinea Bissau, as part of its regional marine monitoring programme, the European delegation in the country said in Bissau Thursday.

According to the statement, the programme has funding of 3.3 billion CFA francs (5 million euros), for countries in the sub-region, with the aim of conserving fishing resources, combating illegal fishing and protecting artisanal fishing practices.

The programme includes surveillances operations in Guinea Bissau’s territorial waters and modernisation of equipment, as well as providing training.

The head of the EU delegation, Ambassador Joaquin González-Ducay, said in a statement that “the re-launch of the regional marine monitoring programme is intended to conserve and manage Guinea Bissau’s natural resources, including sustainable exploration of marine and land resources.” (macauhub)