08/05/2020 (Agence Europe) – On 8 May the Solomon Islands joined Papua New Guinea, Fiji and Samoa in the Economic Partnership Agreement (EPA) between the EU and the Pacific countries (see EUROPE 12427/8). This EPA, negotiated under the Cotonou Agreement between the EU and the ACP (Africa/Caribbean/Pacific) Group of States, enshrines the progressive liberalisation of trade in products, according to an asymmetrical timetable. “This will bring our people and businesses closer together, create jobs and growth, and boost stability in the global economy”, EU Trade Commissioner Phil Hogan said via Twitter. Tonga has also expressed its wish to accede to the Agreement. (HD)