TOZAKA SATISFIED WITH PACER PLUS CONCLUSION
Hon. Milner Tozaka, Minister of Foreign Affairs and External Trade MP for North Vella La Vella and MSG Chair. Photo credit: GCU.
Lead Spokesperson for Forum Island Countries and Minister of Foreign Affairs and External Trade Milner Tozaka has expressed satisfaction with the progress being made to conclude the ‘Pacific Agreement on Closer Economic Relations (PACER) Plus negotiations in Christchurch, New Zealand.
Pacific Islands Forum Ministers responsible for Trade and Economic Development meeting concluded the legal text of the ‘Pacific Agreement on Relations (PACER) Plus.
It aims to create jobs, raise standards of living and encourage sustainable economic development in the Pacific region.
Hon. Tozaka said they are confident that the commitment, perseverance, and good faith is shown by Australia and New Zealand in these negotiations will lead to a PACER Plus agreement that represents a unique opportunity for Forum Island Countries.
He said this is to address the significant development challenges faced in the region, primarily through the enhancement of our export capacities to bolster economic growth.
Meanwhile, Ministers agreed that Members would work towards finalising the PACER Plus market access negotiations with a view to completing them by end October 2016.
The PACER Plus agreement is expected to be signed by end 2016.