Australia, NZ to train Pacific trade negotiators

Radio Strayaliea reports

Australia and New Zealand have offered to train trade negotiators who would act on behalf of Pacific island nations under the Pacific Agreement on Closer Economic Relations.

Forum trade ministers concluded their meeting in the Cook Islands agreeing that PACER - a guide for a trade and economic relationship between Australia and New Zealand and Pacific island countries - is still work in progress.

Our reporter, Ulamila Wragg, says Australia announced its trade fellowship program to help forum island countries in negotiations under PACER, starting in September this year.

Australia also says it will assist island countries undertake national studies to inform them of their engagement in PACER Plus - an agreement extension to include deepening trade and economic cooperation between all member countries.

New Zealand also provided $US378,000 to fund activities for trade facilitation programs this year and next.