The United Nations-flagged research vessel Dr. Fridtjof Nansen, operating under the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO), is scheduled to arrive in Sri Lanka today to conduct a marine scientific survey in the country’s Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ).
The survey will be carried out in collaboration with the Ministry of Fisheries, Aquatic and Ocean Resources and the National Aquatic Resources Research and Development Agency (NARA), following an invitation extended by the Government of Sri Lanka.
The research mission, which will span 32 days, aims to collect critical scientific data on marine living resources and ecosystems. The findings are expected to support Sri Lanka’s efforts in sustainable fisheries management and strengthen ocean governance.
During the mission, scientists will conduct several key activities including hydro-acoustic surveys to estimate the biomass and distribution of major fish stocks in Sri Lankan waters, assessments of marine pollution levels, and biodiversity monitoring.
The R/V Dr. Fridtjof Nansen programme also focuses on capacity building. Sri Lankan scientists from NARA and other national institutions will work alongside international experts, promoting scientific collaboration and knowledge exchange.
Sri Lanka previously hosted the vessel in 2018, when it carried out a comprehensive survey of the country’s continental shelf and upper slope in partnership with national institutions. Earlier Nansen surveys were also conducted in Sri Lankan waters between 1978 and 1980, highlighting a long-standing scientific partnership under the Nansen Programme.
Sri Lanka’s participation in the latest survey reflects the country’s continued commitment to sustainable fisheries, the protection of marine ecosystems, and international scientific cooperation in the Indian Ocean region.
