SUVA, May 22 (Xinhua) -- A Fijian government minister warned here on Tuesday that trade war and protectionism are not good for the world economy, especially the economies of the Small Island Developing States of the Pacific.
Addressing the opening of the regional workshop on the 11th ministerial conference (MC11) and post MC 11, Fiji's Minister for Industry, Trade, Tourism, Lands and Mineral Resources Faiyaz Siddiq Koya said that the global economy and especially Small Island Developing States of the Pacific cannot afford the emergence of protectionism and tit-for-tat trade war.
The minister also stressed that the World Trade Organisation (WTO) needs to be strong to ensure the observance and integrity of global trade rules.
As small island economies, Fiji and the Pacific Island countries have unique needs, and are at most risk of being left behind by the multilateral trading system, he said, adding that these economies need to be protected and provided a level playing field by the WTO.
As for Fiji, a WTO member, he said that in spite of the island nation's limited human and capital resources, it places great importance on the need to actively participate in the World Trade Organization's forums.
"The setting up of the Fijian Mission in Geneva in 2014, is a testimony of our determination. We are working hard to ensure that the small voice of the Pacific is heard, both in WTO negotiations and in its regular work,"he said.
He also mentioned that the island nation is gravely concerned at the lack of outcomes from MC11, especially on issues that are of importance to the Pacific region fisheries.
"For us in the Pacific, fisheries is an integral part of our culture and the way of life and is also a key resource and a source of livelihood for many," he said.
For his part, WTO Director-General Roberto Azevêdo said that the Pacific Island countries' contribution to negotiations and discussion were crucial, and they face unique challenges.
Jointly organized by the Pacific Islands Forum Secretariat (PIF) in Suva and the WTO, the four-day workshop is being attended by the six Pacific Island countries including Fiji.