EC backs down on Pacific aid conditionality threat

The EC's Head of Delegation to the Pacific, Suva-based Roberto Ridolfi, has sent to the Pacific EPA negotiating team a letter dated Friday 3 August that states Pacific Trade Ministers have [misinterpreted->9220] an earlier [EC communication->9219] and there is no conditionality that would reduce the EDF funds available to the Pacific if the region does not sign an EPA. The EC has also issued a media release explaining the clarification.