SAMOA HOSTS 9TH TRADE COMMITTEE MEETING OF EU-PACIFIC INTERIM ECONOMIC PARTNERSHIP AGREEMENT
Senior Officials and Observers attending the 9th Trade Committee Meeting (Photo: Supplied)
Samoa recently played host to a significant diplomatic gathering as it welcomed delegates for the 9th Trade Committee Meeting of the Interim Economic Partnership Agreement (IEPA) between the European Union (EU) and Pacific States. Held from February 6 to 7, 2024, at the exquisite Taumeasina Island Resort, this event marked Samoa's inaugural hosting since becoming a party to the Agreement. Notably, it also represented the first in-person convening of the Trade Committee since the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic, underscoring the importance of face-to-face engagement in international diplomacy.
Progress and Priorities:
Senior officials from IEPA Parties convened to deliberate on the progress of implementing the IEPA and explore avenues for strengthening development cooperation. With Samoa's recent accession and the EU's emphasis on green transition initiatives, discussions centered on aligning efforts with the Samoa Agreement and advancing sustainable economic development. Key trade priorities, including the development of Kava exports, enhancement of agriculture value chains, protection of geographical indications, promotion of investment, and facilitation of trade in services, were given due consideration.
Expansion and Accession:
One of the focal points of the meeting was the potential accession of additional Pacific nations to the IEPA. Delegations welcomed the prospective inclusion of Niue, Tonga, Tuvalu, Vanuatu, the Federated States of Micronesia, and Timor Leste, recognizing the Agreement's role in fostering regional integration and economic cooperation.
Background and Context:
Samoa's involvement in the IEPA dates back to 2018, following the expiration of preferential trade relations under the EU's "Everything but Arms" initiative. In anticipation of these changes, Samoa actively participated in negotiations to establish the IEPA, thereby securing continued access to European markets. The Agreement forms part of broader efforts within the African, Caribbean, and Pacific (ACP) States to foster mutually beneficial trade relationships with the EU.
Support and Collaboration:
The meeting benefitted from the support of various stakeholders, including the Pacific Regional Integration Support (PRISE) program of the 11th European Development Fund (EDF). Through PRISE, assistance is provided to enable private sector entities to capitalize on market access opportunities facilitated by the IEPA. Additionally, the Pacific Islands Forum Secretariat SPIRIT Unit played a crucial role in facilitating the event, underscoring the importance of regional collaboration in advancing shared objectives.
Representation and Engagement:
Attended by delegations from the four Pacific Parties (Fiji, Papua New Guinea, Samoa, and Solomon Islands), as well as representatives from the EU, the meeting served as a platform for constructive dialogue and exchange. Observer countries, including Tonga, Vanuatu, Tuvalu, Niue, Timor Leste, and the Federated States of Micronesia, contributed valuable perspectives, enriching discussions on regional trade dynamics and cooperation.
The 9th Trade Committee Meeting of the IEPA in Samoa marks a significant milestone in the ongoing partnership between the EU and Pacific States. Against the backdrop of evolving global challenges, including the COVID-19 pandemic and climate change, such engagements underscore the importance of international cooperation and solidarity in addressing shared concerns and advancing common objectives. As Samoa assumes its role as host and participant, it reaffirms its commitment to fostering economic growth, sustainable development, and prosperity for its people and the wider Pacific region.