The agreement is expected to reduce disputes in the two parties’ overlapping exclusive economic zones (EEZs) and protect the rights and interests of fishermen that operate legally in the area.

“I am encouraged by this agreement being signed, and I am hopeful that this will be one of many steps taken by all the parties who have made various claims in the West Philippine Sea. Such an agreement is a positive step towards orderly and peaceful resource extraction in the region, and it will contribute to easing tensions and reduce incidents which could potentially lead to heightened conflict,” said Senator Enverga in a statement.

The Agreement Concerning the Facilitation of Cooperation on Law Enforcement in Fisheries Matters allows for clear processes when a fishing vessel is suspected of conductingillegaloperations in the overlapping EEZs, and formalizes the procedures that either party has to follow.

“This is a good starting point for the ongoing consultations that are necessary between the Philippines and Taiwan in order to maintain good relationships which are of such importance to the two neighbours,” Senator Enverga, who is an Executive Committee member of the Canada-Taiwan Parliamentary Friendship

Group, ended. Senator Enverga and President Ma Ying jeou exchange gifts during an audience in Taipei,
July 2014. (File photo)