Building on cooperative preparations and a recently ratified bilateral agreement to combat illicit transboundary maritime activities, the United States and Papua New Guinea concluded a joint maritime patrol on September 4, 2023, aimed at strengthening regional security and resource management in Papua New Guinea’s exclusive economic zone. First time.
The 14th U.S. Coast Guard District and the U.S. Coast Guard Forces Micronesia/Guam Sector collaborated with Papua New Guinea agencies – the Defense Force, Customs Services, National Fisheries Service, and the Department of Transportation’s Maritime Security Division – with support from the U.S. Embassy in Port Moresby to make this The historical process is a reality.
“The crew of the USCGC Myrtle Hazard alongside ship passengers in Papua New Guinea has been a fulfilling experience for all involved. The success of our joint operations is about more than just achieving mission objectives; it is about building face-to-face relationships that deepen our partnership. Whether we are in the midst of serious discussions Whether it’s about power and jurisdiction or sharing light moments like debating the merits of the best slice of apple pie, these personal interactions are the cornerstone of an enduring alliance. “I’m especially proud that we’ve been able to celebrate our shared accomplishments and individual milestones,” such as the well-deserved promotion of Lt. Nathan Thavara. It is these shared experiences that strengthen our collective commitment to ensuring regional security and sustainable management of marine resources.” — Lieutenant Gal Merritt, Commanding Officer, USCGC Myrtle Hazard (WPC 1139)
Among the most notable achievements of the journal are the following:
● Intensive planning sessions leading to enhanced use of maritime domain awareness tools and strategy development.
● More than 50 distinguished visitors, media and counterparts from Papua New Guinea toured the USCGC Myrtle Hazard.
● A thematic exchange on law enforcement was conducted aboard the USCGC ship Myrtle Hazard, with participation from several partner agencies in Papua New Guinea.
● 10 days of joint time to address illegal maritime activity, including illegal, unreported and unregulated fishing, with ship passengers from Customs and the National Fisheries Authority involved in the first phase and from Customs and the Papua New Guinea Defense Force in the second phase.
● Six fishing vessel contact and monitoring reports made within Papua New Guinea’s EEZ, including a notable VMS violation that resulted in immediate action from the National Fisheries Authority whereby the vessel company was fined for failing to operate its VMS in accordance to Papua New Guinea requirements.
● Four bilateral boardings were conducted on foreign fishing vessels targeting tuna in the EEZ of Papua New Guinea, which did not demonstrate any violations but helped regulate activities in the EEZ of Papua New Guinea, deterring illegal activities and enhancing knowledge regarding fleet compliance Foreign-flagged catch operating in the exclusive economic zone of Papua New Guinea.
● Cultural exchanges, including the exchange of customs, traditions and history.
These operations, led by Papua New Guinea and supported by the US Coast Guard at the invitation of the Government of Papua New Guinea, reinforce the importance of strong bilateral relations. The activities demonstrate parity and common goals between the services, which bodes well for future endeavours.
The western and central Pacific Ocean contributes about 60 percent of the global tuna catch. Cooperation between Papua New Guinea and the United States confirms the mutual commitment to protecting this vital resource, for the benefit of the regional and international community.
For more information about this joint operation and its broader implications, please contact Chief Warrant Officer Sarah Muir at sara.g.muir@uscg.mil or the relevant agencies in Papua New Guinea.
This press release is issued on behalf of the 14th U.S. Coast Guard District and U.S. Coast Guard Forces Micronesia/Guam Sector, in partnership with Papua New Guinea agencies. It celebrates the strong and evolving relationship between the United States and Papua New Guinea, particularly in the areas of maritime security and sustainable fisheries management.
The U.S. Coast Guard, including the 14th District operating out of Honolulu, Hawaii and the U.S. Coast Guard Forces Micronesia/Guam Sector outside Guam, is a distinct branch of the United States Armed Forces, separate from the U.S. Navy and with various powers and a humanitarian administrator. Spirit in its essence. With a longstanding reputation in the Pacific region as a trusted partner, the Service is committed to maritime safety, security and stewardship, fostering lasting relationships through dedicated service.
