4 DECEMBER • WORLD AQUACULTURE • WWW.WAS.ORG Latin American and Caribbean Chapter CHAPTER REPORTS The results of the recent meeting in Chile have marked a turning point for our organization and for all the participants. This event not only consolidated the progress we have been making over the past few years, but also opened new avenues for regional collaboration, technical integration, and institutional strengthening that address the current challenges facing our sector. In Chile, we witnessed an unprecedented level of participation, both in terms of the richness of the presentations and in the quality of the dialogue among representatives from different countries. The working groups allowed us to identify essential areas of agreement on innovation, sustainability, emerging regulations, and continuous improvement, while also sharing successful experiences that can serve as replicable models in the region. The commitment shown by each delegation confirms that we are moving toward a shared and mature vision, where cooperation replaces isolated competition and where information becomes a tool for collective growth. I would like to especially highlight the professionalism with which Chile hosted this meeting. The logistical organization, punctuality, and openness demonstrated were key to ensuring that the discussions were in-depth, productive, and results-oriented. Each participant returned to their country with concrete inputs, tangible agreements, and a renewed perspective on the importance of maintaining strong working networks that transcend borders. However, the most valuable aspect of this event was not only what we achieved, but what we now intend to build. It is precisely in this continuity that the strength of our efforts lies. Therefore, I am pleased to announce that our next major regional meeting will take place from October 27 to 30, 2026, at the Real Intercontinental Hotel in San Salvador, El Salvador. This event will be an opportunity to deepen the agreements reached in Chile, evaluate the progress of our initiatives, and plan new lines of action that respond to the dynamism of our industry. I invite all our colleagues, strategic partners, public and private institutions, and international organizations interested in strengthening regional cooperation to save these dates and join us for the 2026 meeting. Our commitment is to offer a high-level forum with a substantive agenda, bilateral meetings, expert presentations, and to exchange opportunities that will continue to raise the standard of our events. Chile has shown us that when we work together, the results exceed all expectations. Now it's time to take the next step and bring this shared vision to San Salvador. I am fully confident that, with your active participation, 2026 will be a year of consolidation, growth, and new opportunities for our regional community. — Luis Andrés Gonzalez-Agraz, President SOME BENEFITS OF BEING A MEMBER OF THE LACC • Access to World Aquaculture Magazine in both English and Spanish • Access to members-only section on the internet, including back issues of our publications • Discounts on registration fees for WAS and LACC conferences • Opportunities to join LACC committees of your interest • Student support services, awards, and opportunities • Global networking and professional contacts • Leadership opportunities as a Director or officer For more information: https://www.was.org/LACC/en/portal.aspx
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