Rarotonga Cook Islands 2 September 2025 – The Cook Islands Government will be represented by the Honourable Tingika Elikana, Minister of Foreign Affairs & Immigration, at the inaugural EU-Pacific Business Forum, scheduled for 4-5 September in Nadi, Fiji. The Cook Islands will also be represented by the private sector through the Chamber of Commerce and local business Smartie.
Organised by the European Union (EU) and the International Trade Centre, this forum brings together government officials, business leaders, investors and representatives from the EU, Pacific Islands countries, French Pacific territories and Timor-Leste.
Key topics to be discussed include renewable energy, climate resilience, regional connectivity, digital infrastructure, sustainable ocean-based industries such as fisheries, marine transport and tourism, EU-Pacific trade relations and the EU’s Global Gateway investment strategy. This event offers a unique platform aiming to strengthen Pacific-EU cooperation.
The Cook Islands Government looks forward to actively participating in the forum and welcomes the opportunity to meaningfully engage with regional and international partners. With over 200 participants, including regional leaders and ministers, this forum is recognised as a diverse and interactive setting – combining high-level sessions with business networking, bilateral meetings, investment-focused discussions, exhibition spaces and pitching sessions.
Minister Elikana noted that the inaugural forum provides an opportunity “for the Cook Islands to enhance cooperation with the EU, explore sustainable investment and trade opportunities, promote economic diversification and discuss funding support aligned with national priorities. This engagement supports the nation’s ongoing commitment to sustainable development and a climate resilient future.”
For information on the Forum program and session concept notes, see https://international-partnerships.ec.europa.eu/eu-pacific-business-forum_en
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