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His Excellency Vitaliano Gallardo Valencia, Ambassador of Peru to the Solomon Islands based in Canberra, met yesterday with Professor Transform Aqorau, Vice-Chancellor of the Solomon Islands National University (SINU), to discuss areas of mutual interest, including fisheries, education, and the impact of emerging technologies on learning and economic development.
The meeting underscored the importance of fisheries to both nations, with Peru being home to one of the world’s largest commercial fisheries, particularly the Peruvian Anchovy industry. Discussions also touched on the evolution of education, with a focus on upskilling and adapting qualifications to meet the changing demands of the modern economy. Both leaders acknowledged the need for continued collaboration in these areas to ensure sustainable growth and development.
Professor Transform Aqorau highlighted Peruโs historical contributions to the development of the international law of the sea and global fisheries management, particularly its advocacy for the concept of the “Patrimonial Sea”, which laid the foundation for the modern Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ) under the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS).
“As someone who has studied the Law of the Sea and international fisheries extensively, I am well aware of Peruโs significant role in shaping the legal and scientific discourse on ocean governance. The Patrimonial Sea doctrine was instrumental in strengthening coastal states’ rights over marine resources, and Peruโs management of its anchovy fishery has set a precedent in global fisheries management,” said Professor Aqorau.
The meeting also recognised the deep historical ties between Peru and Solomon Islands, dating back to รlvaro de Mendaรฑaโs voyage in 1568. It was from Peru that Mendaรฑa set sail, ultimately discovering and naming the Solomon Islands. This historical connection serves as a foundation for stronger diplomatic and academic cooperation between the two nations.
Both parties expressed a keen interest in fostering greater collaboration between Peru and SINU in areas such as marine science, fisheries management, and the application of emerging educational technologies. The discussions also explored potential academic exchanges and capacity-building initiatives that will enhance knowledge-sharing between institutions in both countries.
SINU remains committed to engaging with international partners to advance education, research, and innovation for the benefit of Solomon Islanders and the Pacific region.
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