22 Oct 2010

Pacific economic minister to meet in Niue

2:37 pm on 22 October 2010

Pacific Islands Forum economic ministers are to meet in Niue next week and will focus on how to broaden the economic base of Pacific countries.

The secretary general of the Pacific Islands Forum, Tuiloma Neroni Slade, says it's part of the agency's aim to build the economic resilience of member countries.

He says discussions will include a report on the progress made in achieving higher returns from the region's fisheries.

Mr Slade says there will be also be some emphasis on improving revenue collection with particular reference to addressing the impacts of the global economic crisis and trade liberalisation.

The meeting will also discuss one of the key elements of the Cairns Compact, namely the strengthening of public finance management.

Mr Slade says the ministers will also consider options to improve access to, and management of climate change resources as well as how to improve opportunities for private sector growth in the region.