Press release - 12 October, 2004
Greenpeace today congratulated delegates participating in the 13th meeting of the Conference of the Parties to CITES for the overwhelming support in favour of conservation of marine species, in particular commercially valuable fish.
Greenpeace today congratulated delegates participating in the
13th meeting of the Conference of the Parties to CITES for the
overwhelming support in favour of conservation of marine species,
in particular commercially valuable fish.
"World governments today have recognised that the oceans are in
risis. They have put conservation ahead of business interests and
have raised the prospects for marine species to survive from the
disastrous impact of unregulated trade," said Nathalie Rey of
Greenpeace.
"Over exploitation has driven many marine species to the brink
of extinction. CITES regulations will help preserve these species
and ensure that trade will not rob future generations of their
natural and cultural heritage."
CITES delegates today voted to uphold the Appendix I listing of
minke whales and supported the Appendix II listing of the great
white shark and the giant reef fish humphead wrasse. (2)
Although decisions have been made to accord these valuable
species a greater level of trade protection, these decisions still
run the risk of being overturned within the next 48 hours when
proposals will be submitted before the whole meeting for final
agreement.
"Conservation of these marine species is an important step to
save ocean life. We urge governments to uphold today's decisions
and continue on the road to safeguard the world's wildlife,"
concluded Rey.