MercoPress. South Atlantic News Agency

Chile warns China about high seas fishing

Chile warned Beijing that unless the Chinese high seas fleet cooperates with marine resource conservation and reduces catches of jurel, Chinese vessels will be banned from Chilean ports beginning May 1.

Following talks between fisheries delegations from both countries in Santiago Fisheries Under Secretary Felipe Sandoval said Chile is waiting for a formal reply from Beijing, and anticipated that if negative there will be a progressive ban on Chinese fishing vessels operating in Chilean ports beginning next May.

Mr. Sandoval added that in the meeting the Chilean delegation expressed their growing concern with the volume of catches by Chinese vessels in high seas, just outside the country's EEZ.

The Chilean National Fisheries Association CEO Cristian Jara underlined that it would be extremely serious if Chile supported a country which allows its fleet "to operate in a non responsible, non civilized manner".

Chile and China have had ongoing talks about high seas fishing in the Pacific.