The secretary general of the African, Caribbean and Pacific group of countries, says it is imperative that it re-engages with Europe on Economic Partnership Agreements.
The EPAs were due to come into effect in 2008, but have not yet been completed anywhere except the Caribbean.
From the Pacific, only Fiji and Papua New Guinea have signed interim agreements.
Dr Mohammed Chambas says one of the sore points at this week's meeting in Vanuatu is the slow progress that has been made so far.
"There is clearly an imperative necessity to re-engage with our EU colleagues, to ensure that the EPA negotiations are speedily concluded on the basis of a shared vision of neutrality, interdependence, equity and fairness."
The secretary general of the African, Caribbean and Pacific group, Dr Mohammed Chambas.
