Yesterday marked a historic day for Fiji as we were included again in all levels of discussions and negotiations as part of the Pacific ACP.
This includes crucial trade talks with the ACP countries and the European Union.
The Pacific Islands Forum had decided in 2009 to suspend Fiji from taking part in these PACP talks.
However, this was overturned yesterday with the 14 Pacific island leaders agreeing to the proposal that Fiji should be allowed back in all levels of talks.
Prime Minister Commodore Voreqe Bainimarama led a government delegation for the talks in Port Moresby.
In an interview with Fijivillage from PNG yesterday, Commodore Bainimarama said he is grateful that the decision has been made in Fiji’s favour.
At the same time he said a major development has occurred where the Pacific ACP now has its own secretariat.
Commodore Bainimarama said the current Chair of the Pacific Islands Forum, Cook Islands Prime Minister Henry Puna is also the Chair of the Pacific ACP.
Meanwhile, Permanent secretary for Industry and Trade Shaheen Ali said the decision signals the best way forward as the Pacific island countries work together on important trade negotiations.
Story by: Vijay Narayan
