The key theme for the Forum Trade Ministers Meeting this week will be "how to ensure Pacific trade work to the advantage of social and economic development in the Pacific countries", said New Zealand Trade Minister Phil Goff Tuesday.

New Zealand "has a strong interest in the development of the Pacific to promote regional prosperity, stability and security", said Goff, who is to visit Nadi, Fiji, for the annual meeting of the region's trade ministers on June 21.

He said removal of barriers to trade within the region is one path to achieving this, but needs to be done in a way and at a pace that ensures its success and deals with any adverse consequences.

Goff will also make a brief visit to Fiji. He will hold trade and defence talks and meet with Prime Minister Laisenia Qarase, Trade Minister Kaliopate Tavola.

He will also meet with the Secretary General of the Pacific Forum, Greg Urwin.

Fiji is New Zealand's major Pacific export market, accounting for nearly 300 million NZ dollars (190 million U.S. dollars) of exports.

Goff said Fiji is also an important Pacific defence partner that makes a real contribution to regional missions, such as the Regional Assistance Mission in Solomon Islands.

"This visit is a reflection of the importance New Zealand places on deepening bilateral trade and defence relationships with Fiji," said Goff.

Source: Xinhua