The inaugural European Union (EU)-Pacific Business Forum, held in Nadi, Fiji, marked a significant step in strengthening economic ties between the EU and Pacific nations. This strategic platform brought together political, business, and developmental leaders to explore opportunities within the framework of the EU’s Global Gateway Strategy, emphasizing investment, trade, and collaboration.
Fiji’s Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Trade, Manoa Kamikamica, highlighted the proactive stance of the Pacific, stating, “The Pacific is not waiting; we are leading.” He emphasized the region’s approach to building cooperation on its own terms in a world often perceived as fragmented. This forum was recognized as a testament to the growing confidence in the Pacific as a respected player in global trade.
Economic interactions between the EU and Pacific ACP countries have significantly increased, with trade reaching €3.8 billion in 2024 alone—a 50% rise compared to a decade earlier. Fiji remains a pivotal contributor, particularly noted for exports in processed fisheries, agricultural products, and specialized manufactured goods, underscoring the region’s readiness and adherence to global standards.
Peteris Ustubs, Director of International Partnerships for Asia and the Pacific at the European Commission, elaborated on the EU’s ongoing commitment through the Global Gateway Strategy, noting that the Business Forum fulfills a promise made by the former EU Commissioner Jutta Urpilainen. The EU aims to sustain and deepen its relationship with the Pacific, emphasizing the construction of vital infrastructure and promoting sustainable development.
The forum not only focused on enhancing Europe-Pacific ties but also fostered intra-Pacific cooperation, with over 330 participants from public and private sectors attending, laying a robust foundation for future endeavors. The EU’s role as a reliable partner is further solidified by its ongoing investments and strategic collaboration seen in various initiatives across the region.
In summary, the forum heralds a new phase of EU-Pacific relations, one characterized by mutual respect, shared goals, and a commitment to foster a sustainable and inclusive model of economic growth. This initiative aligns well with the broader Pacific Protocol, which aims to advance the region’s resilience and economic prosperity in partnership with the EU, ultimately contributing to a more stable and cooperative global community.
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