GCFI Meets with Curaçao Prime Minister to Discuss Hosting of the 79th Annual GCFI Conference

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GCFI Meets with Curaçao Prime Minister to Discuss Hosting of the 79th Annual GCFI Conference

Willemstad, Curaçao — Representatives of the Gulf and Caribbean Fisheries Institute (GCFI) met with the Prime Minister of Curaçao, Gilmar Pisas on 10 March, 2026 to discuss preparations for the 79th Annual GCFI Conference, which will be hosted in Curaçao in November 2026.

The meeting provided an opportunity to highlight the significance of the conference as one of the region’s premier gatherings for fisheries and marine science. The annual event convenes scientists, fishers, policymakers, students, and resource managers from across the Gulf of Mexico and Wider Caribbean to share knowledge, strengthen partnerships, and advance solutions for sustainable fisheries and ocean stewardship.

During the meeting, discussions focused on the importance of regional collaboration in addressing the complex challenges facing marine ecosystems and coastal communities. Hosting the conference in Curaçao will offer an important platform to showcase the island’s leadership in marine conservation and sustainable fisheries management while fostering dialogue and cooperation among regional stakeholders.

“We are honored to engage with the Government of Curaçao as we prepare for the 79th Annual GCFI Conference,” said Fadilah Ali, Executive Director of the Gulf and Caribbean Fisheries Institute. “The conference represents an important opportunity to bring together diverse voices from across the region to exchange ideas, strengthen partnerships, and advance science-based solutions that support the health and resilience of our marine ecosystems and the communities that depend on them.”

GCFI expressed its appreciation to Prime Minister Pisas and the Government of Curaçao for their support and commitment to hosting the conference and for their continued engagement in advancing regional cooperation on fisheries and marine resource management. GCFI also commends our local hosts, Federashon Kooperativanan Uní di Produkshon (FKUP) and Piskabon, for their exceptional organization, facilitation, and professionalism. Their leadership and commitment played an essential role in creating a productive and welcoming environment for dialogue and collaboration.

The 79th Annual GCFI Conference is expected to bring hundreds of participants from more than 40 countries to Curaçao, providing a valuable platform for scientific exchange, professional collaboration, and dialogue on the future of fisheries and marine conservation in the region.

About the Gulf and Caribbean Fisheries Institute (GCFI)
The Gulf and Caribbean Fisheries Institute was founded in 1947 to promote the exchange of information and collaboration on the sustainable use and management of marine resources in the Gulf of Mexico and Wider Caribbean region. Through its annual conference, research dissemination, and regional initiatives, GCFI brings together scientists, fishers, resource managers, and policymakers to address critical issues affecting fisheries and marine ecosystems. If you are interested in supporting the continued growth of this work across the Gulf and Caribbean Region, please visit: https://www.gcfi.org/donate/

Media Contact
Gulf and Caribbean Fisheries Institute
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