First of all, I would like to thank the participating governments, the coordinator, and the organisers of NACA for inviting a representative of DANIDA to sit as an observer at your Third Provisional Governing Council Meeting.
The Danish International Development Agency (DANIDA) has in the past supported and continues to support fisheries and aquaculture development in countries of the region. The support has been through bilateral efforts in the form of specific projects in host countries such as Bangladesh and India, and also through organizations such as the Bay of Bengal Project. Assistance has been and continues to be given in support of aquaculture production, research, and extension programme development.
It is with interest that DANIDA will be observing the sessions over the next two days with the view that possible avenues for cooperation might be identified.
Speaking personally, I have always been encouraged to see that NACA has pursued the very important “intercountry” approach to assisting and supporting the aquaculture sector.
I wish the organization continued success in this very important sector and a smooth transition to an independent and intergovernmental status.
