Busan: South Korea will host an oceans ministers' meeting of the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) member nations later this week in the southeastern port city of Busan, Seoul's oceans ministry announced Tuesday. The meeting aims to address significant issues related to ocean sustainability and international cooperation.

According to Yonhap News Agency, the fifth APEC Ocean-related Ministerial Meeting will take place in Busan, approximately 325 kilometers southeast of Seoul, over a two-day period, starting Wednesday. The event will be held under the theme "Navigating Our Blue Future -- Connection, Innovation and Prosperity." The gathering will bring together around 150 officials, including delegates from the 21 APEC member economies.

The meeting will focus on measures to bolster international cooperation to promote the sustainability of the oceans industry. Participants are expected to exchange views on enhancing ocean resilience and conserving marine environments to support sustainable economic growth. Discussions will also cover combating illegal, unreported, and unregulated fishing, promoting sustainable fisheries and aquaculture, and fostering economic empowerment and participation in the oceans and fisheries sector.

The oceans ministers of the APEC member countries plan to adopt a joint statement based on their discussions, as announced by the Ministry of Oceans and Fisheries. The outcomes of this meeting could significantly impact future policies and collaborations in the region.