Secretary General urges Pacific ACP States to unify

04 February 2011

Secretary General urges Pacific ACP States to unify

The Secretary General of the Pacific Islands Forum Secretariat today urged Pacific ACP States to unite for strength in the international arena.

“I have no doubt in my mind that we, Pacific islanders, have the resilience to make this work,” said Secretary General Tuiloma Neroni Slade, when addressing Pacific ACP Ministers at their meeting currently being held in Apia, Samoa.

Pacific ACP Ministers gather this week in Apia, Samoa, to deliberate on key issues surrounding negotiations with the European Union on a fair and comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (EPA).

Ministers will also discuss regional trade issues related to engagement with the World Trade Organisation (WTO), Aid for Trade and developments under the Pacific Island Countries Trade Agreement (PICTA).

“Although we have been faced with unique challenges over the last six years of negotiations, I strongly believe that we have the ability to accomplish great things,” said Mr Slade, in relation to the region’s EPA negotiations with the EU.

“Let us not dwell on polarizing issues among our sub-regions,” he urged. “While not losing sight of our national needs - for we are a diverse and colourful region - let us press forward to achieve an outcome that recognises our joint development challenges, while honouring the values of reciprocity required in any longstanding and committed union.”

According to Mr Slade, progress of negotiations, thus far, falls short of initial expectations. This is reflected by the fact that only two Pacific ACP States – Papua New Guinea and Fiji – have since signed the interim Economic Partnership Agreement.

“This should not be seen as a shortfall, but as a stepping-stone towards a comprehensive agreement,” said Mr Slade.

“Let us foster the high-level political commitment that exists to give this process momentum and fruition. In your endeavours to progress this important work, you have my utmost assurance that I and your Secretariat remain committed and ready to assist.”

ENDS

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