THE United Arab Emirates (UAE) has expressed interest in negotiating a Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA) with the Pacific region.
Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Trade Manoa Kamikamica made this remark at the Fiji-PNG Investment Business Forum in Nadi last week.
He said there was growing interest from development partners to engage more closely with the Pacific.
“As two of the largest economies in Melanesia, Fiji and Papua New Guinea have a responsibility to not only strengthen our bilateral partnership, but also to lead the broader Pacific towards deeper regional trade integration,” Mr Kamikamica said.
“Such an agreement could provide new market opportunities for our exporters, attract investment into critical sectors and diversify our global economic partnerships.
“In this regard, Fiji strongly believes that Papua New Guinea is well-placed to take a leading role in these discussions.
“With your economic scale, resources and influence, PNG can champion the Pacific’s collective interests and ensure that any partnership reflects the unique needs and aspirations of small island developing states.”
Meanwhile, Mr Kamikamica said Fiji and Papua New Guinea have stood shoulder to shoulder on the global stage, particularly at the World Trade Organization.
“Together, we fought a tough battle to ensure that the voices of small island developing states were heard in the negotiations on fisheries subsidies,” he said.
“Our collective advocacy contributed to the successful conclusion of the WTO Fisheries Subsidies Agreement – Fish 1.
“This was a historic outcome, curbing harmful subsidies that contribute to illegal, unreported, and unregulated fishing. It was a victory not only for Fiji and PNG, but for the entire Pacific, where fisheries are our lifeblood and central to our economic security.
“Now, the focus has shifted to the second wave of negotiations – Fish 2.
“Once again, Fiji looks forward to working hand in hand with Papua New Guinea to ensure that the final outcome is fair, ambitious, and delivers real benefits for our people and our oceans.
“And while Fiji has already ratified the Fish 1 Agreement, we believe that Papua New Guinea’s ratification would further strengthen our region’s leadership and credibility in these negotiations.
“It would send a powerful message to the world.”
Note: This article was first published on the print version of the Fiji Times dated August 25, 2025