Pacific IEPA parties convene in Suva to strengthen regional coordination

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs and External Trade hosted the Third Meeting of the Pacific Caucus under the Interim Economic Partnership Agreement (IEPA) in Suva, yesterday (28.1.26).

The meeting brought together senior officials from Pacific IEPA Parties—Fiji, Papua New Guinea, Solomon Islands, and Samoa—as part of regional preparations for the 11th European Union–Pacific IEPA Trade Committee Meeting, scheduled for 29–30 January 2026.

In opening remarks, the Permanent Secretary for Foreign Affairs and External Trade, Dr Raijieli Taga, in her capacity as Pacific Co-Chair, emphasised the importance of regional coordination and solidarity in an evolving global trade environment. She noted that the Pacific Caucus remains a key platform for aligning shared priorities, exchanging experiences, and strengthening collective engagement with the European Union under the IEPA framework.

Discussions focused on strengthening institutional arrangements supporting the Pacific Caucus, enhancing coordination mechanisms, and ensuring effective preparation for forthcoming engagements with the European Union. Participants also exchanged views on procedural and governance matters related to IEPA implementation, as well as broader areas of regional cooperation.

The meeting reaffirmed the commitment of Pacific IEPA Parties to work collaboratively to safeguard shared interests and advance development-focused outcomes under the Agreement, underscoring the value of a unified Pacific approach in international trade discussions.