The Attorney General has expressed regret on the recent decision to exclude Fiji from the Pacific Closer Economic Relations (PACER) related meetings, namely the recent meetings held in Apia.
Aiyaz Sayed-Khaiyum in a statement today said Fiji exclusion from regional trade talks has the potential to adversely impact on the country's economic development by affecting its regional trade and economic integration, thereby hurting its most vulnerable and disadvantaged citizens.
Sayed-Khaiyum said Fiji is a party to PACER having signed and ratified the Agreement in 2001 and the decision to exclude Fiji from discussions is a violation of her rights under the treaty.
He added in Fiji's absence, the governments of Australia and New Zealand will continue to use their dominant economic and political position and influence in the region to fast track the commencement and the conclusion of PACER Plus negotiations, while overlooking the long term development interests of the small island economies.
AG expresses regret
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