13 Nov 2006

ACP members in Vanuatu to discuss fisheries deal with EU

5:01 pm on 13 November 2006

Trade and fisheries officials from the Pacific nations which belong to the African Caribbean Pacific group of countries are meeting in Port Vila to negotiate a Fisheries Partnership Agreement.

This is part of the Economic Partnership Agreements the European Union is endeavouring to sign with its aid recipients.

The deputy secretary of the Pacific Islands Forum, Peter Forau, says the Pacific regards fisheries as a key sector for cooperation with Europe because of its potential for long-term development.

He told the meeting the magnitude of fisheries negotiation is huge and complicated, and requires the members to remain together as a group in the lead up to and during negotiations.

He says the joint meeting ensures the region is able to use the expertise of its fisheries and trade experts and others to design an FPA that is beneficial for it.