In recent times, Ecuador has expressed official unease over the spotting of a fleet of 260 predominantly Chinese fishing vessels near the Galapagos archipelago, which is part of Ecuador. This fleet also incorporated several Liberia and Panama flagged vessels that were detected in an international water passage located between two areas under Ecuadorian jurisdiction – 200 miles from the Galapagos Islands and mainland Ecuador.
Galapagos Archipelago Overview
The Galapagos Islands, covering nearly 60,000 sq km, belong to Ecuador. They are situated in the Pacific Ocean about 1,000 km away from the continent of South America. In 1935, a section of the Galapagos was declared a wildlife sanctuary by Ecuador. Later, in 1959, this sanctuary evolved into the Galapagos National Park. The islands were recognized as UNESCO’s first World Heritage Site in 1978.
Flora and Fauna of Galapagos
The islands are home to various aquatic species such as manta rays and sharks, which are currently at risk due to commercial fishing. A broad range of aquatic wildlife, like marine iguanas, fur seals, and waved albatrosses, also inhabit these islands. Moreover, the islands got their name from the giant tortoises found there, called ‘Galápagos’ in old Spanish.
Historical Significance of the Islands
During his visit in 1835, Charles Darwin, a British naturalist, made important observations on these islands that played a crucial role in shaping his evolution theory. He referred to the islands as a “world in itself.”
Past Incidents
Ecuador reports that such fleets reach the outer limit of the archipelago – outside the country’s exclusive zone – every year. In 2019, 245 Chinese fishing vessels were spotted in the area where Ecuador’s dominion does not extend. Earlier, in 2017, Ecuadorian authorities seized a Chinese ship that had entered their waters illegally. Shockingly, it was found to be carrying 300 tonnes of wildlife, mostly critically endangered scalloped hammerhead sharks.
Why Chinese Ships Converge on Ecuador’s Waters
Chinese ships are a common sight in Ecuador’s waters during August as the cold Humboldt Current brings in nutrients that attract a high congregation of marine species. This highly productive ecosystem accounts for about 18-20% of the total worldwide marine fish catch.
Conflicts with Other Nations
Chinese vessels also often run afoul of other countries in the region. In a 2016 incident, Argentina’s coast guard hunted down and sank a boat it alleged was fishing illegally in the South Atlantic Ocean.
Diplomatic Fallout
This issue has escalated to a diplomatic level and Ecuador has officially communicated its “discomfort” to China. The USA has expressed support for Ecuador, voicing opposition to any aggression towards economic and environmental sovereignty.
China’s Response
Despite issues, China claims to be a “responsible fishing nation” with a “zero tolerance” policy towards illegal fishing, and states to respect Ecuador’s efforts to safeguard the environment and conserve marine resources.
Solution Going Forward
Considering the looming threat of climate change, all nations including China must exercise increased caution regarding environmental issues. The expected increase in fishing pressure around these islands due to ocean warming further underscores the need for effective global collaboration to resolve such issues.
