Fisheries and food security

managing fisheries partnership agreements between EU and non EU countries

I began my professional journey in Sri Lanka’s flourishing floriculture industry, focusing on European and Far Eastern markets. Over five years, I led research and development initiatives, pioneering non-conventional breeding methods that significantly advanced the sector. This foundation facilitated my transition into project and program management, where I have had the privilege of collaborating with governmental bodies and international funding organizations.

A highlight of my career was playing a key role in the success of the National Agriculture Development Program (2003-2014), contributing to strategic planning, coordination, and execution, while bringing over two decades of diverse experience within Sri Lanka’s agricultural development sector.

My professional journey has been shaped by multidisciplinary training, equipping me with expertise in project and program management, monitoring and evaluation, strategic planning in MEAL (Monitoring, Evaluation, Accountability, and Learning), sustainable rural development, climate-smart agriculture, food and nutrition security, Agric value chain & SME developments,Results-Based Management (RBM), gender mainstreaming, and knowledge management, among other areas of competence.

Since October 2015, I have had the privilege of coordinating multifaceted projects and programs for the EU Delegation in Sri Lanka and the Maldives, with a focus on integrated rural development. These initiatives span critical sectors such as agriculture ( agri- green), food and nutrition, local governance, WASH (Water, Sanitation, and Hygiene), SCP (Sustainable Consumption and Production), and Nature based tourism, all aimed at fostering positive, sustainable development.

As I continue my professional path, I remain committed to leveraging my diverse expertise to drive impactful transformations across Sri Lanka’s evolving sectors, contributing meaningfully to sustainable development goals.

Expert in small-scale and industrial fisheries and aquaculture with experience in developing countries on projects funded by international donors and technical agencies (mainly EU, FAO), particularly in quality and safety of fishery products, value-added products, and fish processing.
Expert in developing pictorial training manuals on good practices regarding fish quality and safety, handling, and processing for small-scale fisheries. Designed pictorial awareness materials such as posters. Developed training manuals on good business practices for small-scale fisheries, including value-chain product possibilities.
Expert in technical document translation in the sector of fisheries and aquaculture, and studies.

Long-term (35+ year) experience in sustainable economic development, climate change, environment in different economic sectors as an institutional development, strategic planning, capacity development, and knowledge management and communication expert in programmes and projects in Asia, Africa and Caribbean. Working in multi-disciplinary teams and for international organisations (ADB, UNICEF, UNDP, FAO, UNESCO, AU-NEPAD, IFAD-BSF, UNESCO-IHE, DFID, EC-DG-DEVCO/DG-INTPA, ACP-CTA, CAREC Institute), government and research institutions, universities, NGOs, private sector and (inter)national networks in Asia, Africa, Caribbean and Pacific.
In last two decades advising government institutions, international organisations and civil society organizations and networks in Asia/Pacific and Africa on institutional development, strategic and business planning, capacity development, knowledge and information management, communication, partnerships, use of ICTs, and innovation in different socio-economic sectors.
I have worked with international networks, NGOs, community-based organizations and local communities in the broader context of sustainable development with a focus on poverty reduction, gender equality, sustainable livelihoods, life-long learning, health and education. Before 2000 specifically focused on research and management of fisheries in Africa, Asia and the Caribbean.

For more information on my projects see: https://nl.linkedin.com/in/ruudcrul

Asif Ali Shah is a seasoned Pakistani diplomat having over 21 years of experience in Monitoring, Evaluation, Accountability, and Learning (MEAL). His dynamic career has taken him across Georgia, Myanmar, Cambodia, Bangkok and Pakistan, where he has established/led resilient, emergency, and development programming over a portfolio of 170 USD, across United Nations agencies and international organizations focusing on strategic efforts in development programming in MEAL, institutional reform, and results-based evaluation. He has successfully collaborated with a wide array of donors, including EU, USAID, GEF, GCF, FCDO, JICA and Italy, ensuring rigorous standards and cross-sectoral impact.
Currently based in Georgia, Asif contributes to international development platforms with deep expertise in rolling-out MEAL, data systems, accountability frameworks, and stakeholder coordination. Known for his precision, independence, and cross-sectoral leadership, he blends global experience with local insight to advance transparent, impactful solutions. This multidimensional background enables him to adapt swiftly, communicate effectively, and drive strategic innovation in complex development environments.
Beyond his professional work, Asif is a passionate horseman and accomplished polo player. He proudly participated in the legendary Shandur Polo Festival, held at the highest polo ground in the world—often referred to as the “Roof of the World.” His love for the sport reflects a commitment to discipline, heritage, and resilience.