The EU and 16 countries in Eastern and Southern Africa have decided to join forces and promote trade and development by negotiating a region-to-region Economic and Partnership Agreement (EPA). By opening up trade between both regions and setting up clear rules for trade, the EPA will contribute to the economic integration of the region. Tearing down barriers to trade among themselves is the necessary complement to the almost full access to the EU market already enjoyed by these countries.

On the eve of his departure to Mauritius to launch these talks, EU Trade Commissioner Pascal Lamy said: "The EPA negotiations with Eastern and Southern Africa will follow a hands-on approach: development is the objective, trade one of the tools. By initiating negotiations on a regional basis, our partners have already taken a big step towards deepening and accelerating their own economic integration. If at the end of these negotiations, Eastern and Southern Africa stands as a stronger region, able to define its common interest and improve jointly the environment for business and investors, we will all have won."

EU Development Commissioner Poul Nielson added: "I am encouraged by Eastern and Southern Africa's important decision to initiate EPA negotiations with the EU. Deepening regional integration, breaking down barriers to neighbours and creating larger markets are crucial steps if these countries are to stimulate the necessary investments and productivity improvements that will drive their development. This long term perspective of development is the prime objective of the EPA's. "

In Mauritius, both sides will agree on the structure and the roadmap for the negotiations. Furthermore, they will exchange views on regional priorities and how to integrate most effectively the development dimension in the EPA process.

Commissioner Lamy will call on the President of the Republic of Mauritius, H.E. Sir Jugnauth and will engage in working sessions with Prime Minister Bérenger and key ministers as well as with the private sector. High on the agenda in the discussions with Mauritius authorities, business and civil society will include the future of trade in textiles after the expiry of the WTO multifibre arrangement in January 2005, the on-going reform of the EU sugar market and the diversification of the Mauritius economy. Pascal Lamy will also participate at the launch of "e-marketplace", a project by the Mauritius Export Processing Zone to enable small- and medium sized enterprises to exploit new market opportunities through an internet-enabled platform.
The EU has already committed more than EUR 700 million from the European Development Fund for supporting trade related activities and regional integration in the Eastern and Southern African countries.

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