29 Jul 2009

Solomon Islands take cautious approach on PACER Plus negotiatons

11:21 am on 29 July 2009

Solomon Islands has taken a cautious approach in the negotiation of free trade agreement with Australian and New Zealand known as PACER Plus.

The Solomon Star newspaper reports Foreign Affairs Minister, William Haomae revealed this in Parliament when asked by MP Patterson Oti.

The paper quotes Mr Haomae saying Parliament cannot begin negotiating on an agreement that will have a structural impact on its economic landscape until it is properly prepared.

He added that it will need in-depth preparation so the Government fully understands where the countries' interests lie.

The Pacific Agreement on Closer Economic Relations, dubbed "PACER Plus" came about after Australia and New Zealand trade ministers met with their Pacific counterparts in Apia, Samoa in June.