Minister: Fiji gateway to Pacific

 FIJI can be the gateway for Papua New Guinea to other Pacific countries when the trade and economic relations are further strengthened, a Cabinet Minister says.

Trade, Commerce and Industry Minister Richard Maru returned  from a trip to Fiji where he met Fiji’s Industry, Trade and Tourism minister Faiyaz Koya on ways to foster bilateral relations. 

“I have affirmed our keen interest to deepen our relationship with Fiji as far as trade and investment are concerned,” Maru said. 

“Fiji is in the middle of the other islands states. 

“Fiji will be our prime target for this year. 

“And I want to make it clear to the private sector: I need your friendship and your partnership.

“The other issue is that we realise Fiji is very good at other areas like textile, food processing. 

“We can engage with them and they can come and train our people.

“We can engage in joint venture companies – that was one of the things we have discussed. We are happy about their trade office to be established here.”