The International Coalition of Fisheries Associations (ICFA) has appointed Ivan López Van der Veen as its new chair.
López, vice president of the Spanish Confederation of Fisheries, was officially elected during ICFA’s general assembly in Rome, where the organisation discussed critical issues such as decarbonisation, climate change, food security, nutrition and the fight against illegal, unreported and unregulated fishing.
“I have a firm commitment to advancing ICFA’s mission and ensuring a sustainable future for our industry worldwide,” López said.
“By working together, we can meet the challenges ahead and continue to provide essential contributions to global nutrition and livelihoods.”
López brings more than 25 years of experience in the fisheries sector, with a background in international affairs and economics. He currently serves as the general manager of Pesquera Ancora, chairs the European Union’s Long Distance Advisory Council, and heads the European Bottom Fishing Alliance.
In a related announcement, Fiona MacMillan, general manager of Communications and Marketing at Seafood New Zealand, was named chair of the Global Seafood Communicators.
“I’m thrilled to lead the Global Seafood Communicators at a time when the seafood industry is increasingly recognised for its importance to global food security and as a source of healthy and sustainable protein,” said MacMillan.
