African, Caribbean ACP Secretariat Avenue Georges Henri 451 From Georgetown to Sipopo and beyond & Pacific 1200 Brussels, Belgium Group of States www.acp.int The African, Caribbean and Pacific Group at 40 The African, Caribbean and Pacific Group at 40 The African, Caribbean and Pacific Group From Georgetown to Sipopo and beyond The African, Caribbean and Pacific Group at 40

On the cover African, Caribbean Scenes from the celebration of the 40th anniversary & Pacific of the ACP Group of States on 4-5 June 2015 at the ACP © 2015 ACP Secretariat. All rights reserved. Group of States House in Brussels, Belgium. Photos by ACP Press Office/ Video Lawson.

ACP Front end paper 2015-11-13 FINAL PRINT.indd 4-5 13.11.15 14:55 4 The African, Caribbean and Pacific Group at 40 5

Foreword Table of contents

he African, Caribbean and Pacific This publication seeks to capture the ACP’s 40th Anniver- 2 Foreword Group of States is a unique organ- sary celebrations within the context of these developments, isation of 79 developing coun- through excerpts from statements shared, including that 7 Opening Remarks tries established in 1975, with the of the keynote speaker H.E Samuel Kutesa, President of the overarching aim of achieving and Sixty-ninth General Assembly. The three T poverty eradication for its Member States. Forty years later, sub-themes of the symposium: “Regional Perspectives 9 Session I these preoccupations remain as relevant as before, although for the Future”; “Building Partnerships”; and “The ACP Regional Perspectives for the Future the global context has evolved significantly. of Tomorrow”, all point to the ACP Group’s aim to more effectively engage regional actors, traditional development 21 Session II To mark the 40th Anniversary of the ACP Group, a two-day partners, as well as new strategic partners in building a Building Partnerships high level symposium was held on 4-5 June 2015, which stronger, more dynamic ACP for the future. It is my hope witnessed dynamic, insightful, and enlightening discus- that these records of the event will inspire more discussions Session III sions on the organisation’s achievements as well as chal- and contribute to the discourse on global governance and 39 the potential role of the ACP Group of States therein. Conclusions – The ACP of Tomorrow lenges over four decades of existence. The symposium also aimed at capturing the perspectives of the ACP Group’s regional configurations with regard to the future of the Finally, I would like to congratulate once more our 79 47 Closing remarks and the way forward Group. Punctuated by cultural performances highlighting Member States, spanning six regions in Sub-Saharan Africa, the rich diversity that exists amongst the membership, the two groups of sovereign states in the history of interna- the Caribbean and the Pacific, for 40 years of solidarity and event was an opportunity to reflect on realities of the past tional relations, the Lomé Convention. This ushered in four fruitful collaboration. My sincere appreciation also extends and explore aspects of a positive, pragmat ic future as an ensuing decades of cooperation with Europe, which shaped to the Task Force that did such a formidable job in ensuring effective global player. much of the work of the ACP Group during this period. With the success of the 40 year Anniversary celebrations. the current partnership agreement coming to a close in The overarching theme of the 40th Anniversary event - 2020, both sides are undertaking serious reflections on the Long live the ACP! “From Georgetown to Sipopo and beyond” - recalls the nature and parameters of future relations. The Sipopo Decla- historic Georgetown Agreement, signed at the capital of the ration of the 7th ACP Summit of Heads of State and Govern- Republic of Guyana on 6 June 1975, which founded the ACP ment held in Malabo, Equatorial Guinea in 2012, recognised Group as an intergovernmental body with its own vision, the shifting geopolitical landscape and new 21st century structures and work programme. Just months before, in challenges for development. It also reaffirmed the commit- H.E. Mrs Mpeo Mahase-Moiloa February 1975, the ACP countries had endorsed with the ment of ACP Member States to remain as a cohesive Group, Ambassador of the Kingdom of Lesotho European Economic Community the most comprehensive working together to achieve sustainable development and Chairperson of the ACP Committee of Ambassadors cooperation agreement between raise the living standards of its populations. 6 The African, Caribbean and Pacific Group at 40 9

Opening Remarks

H.E. Roy Mickey Joy Ambassador of the Republic of Vanuatu, Chairman of the ACP Committee of Ambassadors, 1 February – 31 July 2015

oday marks a very important day on the occasion of the birth of the ACP Group of States. Over the last 40 years we, as a group, registered “ Tsignificant successes, not least in making our modest contri- butions towards uplifting the livelihoods of our peoples in the nations of our six regions of the ACP Group. It would however also be fair to say that we’ve encountered a few chal- lenges along the way. The 40th anniversary therefore provides a good opportunity to not only celebrate our successes, but also reflect on the challenges encountered and lessons learnt. Then we can chart our future, as we leverage our strengths towards enhancing the effectiveness of our ACP Group as a global player. ”

Ivorian singer and Human Rights Ambassador Dobet Gnahoré performs during the cultural segment of the ACP 40th anniversary celebrations. 11

Session I Regional Perspectives for the Future

Moderated by H.E. Samuel Jefferson Chandler Ambassador of Barbados

Smiling faces of the South Pacific (Tuvalu and Fiji Islands). A spectacular buffet of authentic traditional cuisine from the African, Caribbean and Pacific regions has become a hallmark of the ACP Day celebrations each year. The African, Caribbean and Pacific Group at 40 13

The challenges of Small Island Developing States (SIDS) in the Pacific, and relations with other ACP States

H.E. Mere Falemaka Permanent Representative of the Secretariat (PIFS) in Geneva

Sustainable development challenges faced by Pacific Small Island Developing States (SIDS) include , small size, relative isolation and vulnerability to external shocks. The region is responding to these challenges through a new framework for Pacific regionalism, while acknowledging that the ACP Group provides a unique platform for solidarity and collaboration with other ACP SIDS facing the same struggles.

he Pacific region values its rela- Asia and East Asia on one side, as well as the United States on tionship with ACP States, as our the other side. Here again, we see the importance of the ACP diversity and solidarity are also Group in leveraging strategic partnerships that can bring our strength. The ACP is probably Small Island States to the world powers, to engage effectively “ Tthe only the international institution outside of the United and constructively in addressing their concerns. We need Nations which can be called the ‘home’ of the Small Island to draw attention to the challenges that we face together States, that is, the Small Island States of the Caribbean, of as a group and support the development of our capacity in the Indian Ocean, and also the Pacific. The Pacific therefore priority areas such as trade financing and climate financing. welcomes the recent decision to establish a SIDS Forum within the ACP as the mechanism which will start to translate some The ACP Group is an important additional and influential of these international commitments into action, in order to voice for the ACP countries, including the SIDS, in the global address the challenges facing the Pacific SIDS. fora, as we have seen clearly in Geneva, where the ACP Group is a well-recognised group in the WTO trade negotiations. We The Pacific Islands are perhaps too small to be able to attract recognise that the ACP can use that weight in the other global the attention of the larger players around us. We are right decision-making processes. next door to the economic powerhouses of Asia, South East ” 14 The African, Caribbean and Pacific Group at 40 15

Progress towards deeper economic integration: The experience of SADC

Dr. Angelo Mondlane Director of Policy Planning and Resource Mobilisation, Southern African Development Community (SADC)

The Southern African Development Community (SADC) is advancing towards deeper regional economic integration, with a focus on infrastructure, trade, finance and agriculture, as well as adding value and beneficiating the region’s natural resources. For SADC, a strong ACP Group should align itself with work being done in the various sub-regions on economic integration.

CP countries as a whole now face new When the final report [of the ACP Eminent Persons’ Group] on challenges which they have to measure the future of the ACP is finally presented to the ACP Summit, up to, including the development of let it comprehensively address the need for any future arrange- A global value chains and mega-regional ment to partner itself in a substantive way with work being “ and inter-continental trade agreements, among other things. done in the various sub-regions on economic integration. For Let the process that was initiated through the Sipopo Decla- us in SADC, it is important that this relevance is premised on ration [of the 7th ACP Summit of Heads of State and Govern- lifting the region to greater heights in terms of participation ment] be the basis for an ACP that is a useful platform to its in global value chains, value addition and beneficiation to members and sub-regions as they face up to these modern our natural resources, whilst also consolidating relationships challenges. with emerging countries and economic groups.

International dynamics, and indeed the political and As we reflect on the past 40 years of the founding of the ACP economic developments in various member countries of the Group, we also look to the future and commit ourselves to the Group, have evolved a lot since the time the 1975 Georgetown renewed partnership, with a reinvigorated ACP Group which Agreement laid the basis for cooperation among the ACP will offer us a platform of choice for more meaningful inter- countries. We now have a Group with members that have huge action on the rapidly evolving global stage. disparities and [diverse] trajectories in terms of economic development, and are likely to find articulation of their posi- tions better projected in other fora, rather than strive for a collective voice under the ACP. ” 16 The African, Caribbean and Pacific Group at 40 17

EPAs as a development tool: Institutional and implementation issues in the Caribbean

Dr. Percival Marie Director-General of the Caribbean Forum (CARIFORUM)

The Economic Partnership Agreements (EPA) between the and the regions of the ACP Group have undergone a long and arduous path of negotiations between the various blocs. While the Caribbean region (negotiating as the CARIFORUM) was the first to sign and ratify a comprehensive regional EPA with the EU, it has seen a number of difficulties in terms of imple- mentation.

he technical studies undertaken That situation is compounded by the built-in challenges of and the ongoing consultations the Agreement as they relate to the development of trade in on the Five-year Review of the services between CARIFORUM and the EU. Economic Partnership Agreement “ Tall conclude that the EPA has not yet delivered the range and The joint institutions of the EPA have all been established, scope of benefits which were anticipated. There are differ- but effective CARIFORUM participation will be challenged ences of opinion on the reasons for that situation. by financial and technical capacity constraints. The absence of a permanent mechanism for continuous monitoring of One thing is clear: relative emphasis has been placed on the EPA is one pervasive institutional constraint. Unless that CARIFORUM States meeting their obligations under the is changed, reviews and evaluations will be periodic, histor- Agreement, as against deriving benefits from the Agree- ical and ad hoc and not timely enough to address challenges ment. and constraints on a real time basis.

The available information suggests that institutional and The CARIFORUM/EU EPA has tremendous potential for capacity limitations at national and regional levels have contributing to the sustainable development of CARI- constrained CARIFORUM in meeting all of its obligations FORUM States. Attention must, however, be paid to the under the EPA. Similar limitations, as well as supply- [various constraints] for the true potential of the EPA to be side constraints, have negatively affected CARIFORUM´s realised. capacity to take advantage of the provisions of the EPA. ” 18 The African, Caribbean and Pacific Group at 40 19

Peace as a requisite for successful regional and ACP cooperation

Mr. Daniel Pascal Elono Head of the Rapid Alert Mechanism for Central Africa Economic Community of Central African States (ECCAS)

For the Economic Community of Central African States (ECCAS), the struggle for peace and security is one that must be addressed primarily at the regional level, where the regional economic communities and regional organisations have a key role to play. Peace and security must always be addressed together, and both constitute an indispensable requisite for sustainable development in ACP countries.

e welcome the fact that the to discuss such goals without mentioning peace. It is there- ACP Group puts particular fore, a prerequisite for cooperation, firstly within regional emphasis on the regions economic communities, but also within the African conti- and sub-regions, especially nent, and finally between different entities, that is amongst “ in Africa. For us today, the regional economic communi- all members of the ACP Group. As peace is a condition for Wties have a vital role to play in everything we undertake. I cooperation and development, we also believe that coopera- am sure you understand what motivates me to speak about tion and development are a condition for peace. the Economic Partnership Agreements and many other European Union programmes that are carried out specif- The current global context is favourable for the ACP Group ically within the framework of these regional economic to imagine itself as a valid actor in the international arena, communities. with the appearance of new emerging countries and the challenges of the contemporary world. As it celebrates its If we look at the African continent today, it is impossible 40 years of existence and experience, we believe that the to speak of cooperation and finally development - because I ACP Group will be only what its members want it to be think what the ACP Group is ultimately working towards is tomorrow. the development of our peoples and States – it is impossible ” 20 The African, Caribbean and Pacific Group at 40 21

Ensuring the financial sustainability of international organisations: The case of ECOWAS

H.E. Kadré Désiré Ouédraogo President of the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) Commission

Key to ensuring the future of an international organisation, is financial sustainability. The West African region offers a successful model for self-financing, via a fixed levy placed on goods imported into the region from third countries. Such financial sustainability requires a number of elements: the political will of States to honour their financial obligations; a favourable environment for investment; rational management of resources; diversified sources of funding and South-South cooperation.

irst of all, the question of long-term This financing mechanism has enabled the organisation development finance speaks to the to definitively extricate itself from the unpredictability importance of possessing one’s of direct contributions from Member States, drawn from own resources, which offers ACP national budgets. It has enabled not only the settling of “ Fcountries greater flexibility in directing and controlling arrears in contribution, but also to generate the necessary their own development process. Statutory contributions, resources to finance various Community programmes and including external resources, although necessary, are often to ensure the proper functioning of its institutions. not the best suited with respect to the increasing financing needs of organisations as their mandates evolve. Finally, the As a result, ECOWAS now manages to finance, on average, multiple economic, social, political, and security challenges more than 85% of its activities - the proportion of external that our organisations face require adequate and sufficient funds being only less than 15%. This encouraging result resources to cope in all circumstances has strengthened ECOWAS’ credibility and its position as a major interlocutor in the framework of multilateral cooper- The financial viability of organisations such as ours points ation. to a number of key principles namely: autonomy; predict- ability; durability; equity and ownership. It is in light of I would like to reiterate the profound commitment of these principles that, in 1996, ECOWAS adopted the Protocol ECOWAS countries to the ideals of the ACP Group whose on the Community Levy, which is fixed at 0.5% of the value actions have helped strengthen South-South coopera- of goods imported from third countries, and channelled tion. directly to the ECOWAS Commission. ” 23

Session II Building Partnerships

Moderated by H.E. Dr. Ousmane Sylla Ambassador of the Republic of Guinea

The Ambassador of Gabon H.E Félicité Ongouori Ngoubili shows her appreciation for a Pacific Island ukulele performance from Tonga. 24 The African, Caribbean and Pacific Group at 40 25

The ACP Group of States in the changing global order

Keynote Speaker: H.E. Samuel Kutesa President of the 69th session of the General Assembly of the United Nations

The ACP Group has always been committed to enhancing trade and economic cooperation in Member States, but it must devise new and better strategies that will position the Group to be more competitive in the 21st century. It is crucial to further enhance and deepen the level of cooperation and coordination amongst the membership, with the European Union, and other partners. The ACP Group must optimise its strengths and opportunities to be successful in the new global order.

t is inadequate that a Group with a members in special situations such as the Least Developed combined population of over 900 Countries, Landlocked Developing Countries and Small million people contributes less than 5% Island Developing States. of world trade and only 1.9% of global “ GDP. To remain an influential actor in the new global order, Collectively, and with support of development partners, Ithe ACP States have to reposition the work of the Group, ACP countries need to address infrastructure deficits espe- improve competitiveness, and strengthen representation in cially in energy and transport which constrain industriali- global governance structures. The need to diversify econo- sation and value addition to their commodities and natural mies and reduce commodity dependence cannot be overem- resources. It is also critical to address the enabling domestic phasised. and international environment for development, including issues related to debt relief as well as systematic issues, such Though ACP States may belong to different groups in inter- as the reform of global governance and the international governmental negotiations, it is essential to support and financial system. coalesce around their common interests, and those of their ” 26

he important role that EU and its The prospects of the ACP Group in the new global order are Member States play in develop- bright provided it optimises its strengths and seizes oppor- ment finance cooperation through tunities. the various ACP-EU agreements is “ Tcommendable. This is a good example of how South-South ACP countries should enhance by boosting and North-South cooperation can be exemplary. productive capacities and competitiveness in order to increase their share of global trade. They should also further As a mutually beneficial post-Cotonou partnership for 2020 strengthen intra-ACP cooperation, taking advantage of their and beyond is being envisaged, it will be important to build combined population, diversity and different levels of devel- on this foundation. Taking into account the lessons learned opment. Above all, we should all work together, developed and addressing persistent challenges, including those and developing countries to improve the livelihoods of all related to the Economic Partnership Agreements (EPAs) will people and to protect our planet. be crucial. H.E Samuel Kutesa, President of the 69th session of the United Nations General Assembly”

President of the UN General Assembly Samuel Kutesa with the ACP Secretary General and some of the ACP Ambassadors in Brussels.

Special guest at the celebrations, Minister of External Relations and Cooperation of the Republic of Comoros, H.E. Dr. Abdoulkarim Mohamed. 28 The African, Caribbean and Pacific Group at 40 29

Sharing the experiences of the , , and (IBSA) Dialogue Forum

H.E. Manjeev Singh Puri Ambassador of the Republic of India

The India, Brazil, and South Africa (IBSA) Forum was set up 12 years ago as a consultative forum for coordination on regional and global political issues, trilateral cooperation, with a devel- opment fund, managed in partnership with the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP). IBSA shares with the ACP Group a commitment to South-South cooperation, through development cooperation, sharing of knowledge and expertise, as well as people to people contact.

e believe that the success of ciple of aiding and assisting fellow developing countries, at the IBSA Fund is mainly due their request, under their ownership, and as per their needs to the fact that India, Brazil and what they wish to achieve out of this. and South Africa, despite “ their own resource constraints and their own problems in In our view, any paradigm in partnership needs to ensure Wtackling poverty and their development challenges, have that developing countries have the required policy space for been ready to contribute to the evolving narrative and the their own development. These partnerships should take into evolving needs for South-South cooperation and partner- account the differences in development levels between the ship for development. countries. They need to be flexible and not bound by rigidity of rules and restrictions. Above all, they need to ensure that We see the fund as an exercise in solidarity, which is initiated the ownership rests with the partners, and it is they who are at the explicit request of a development partner. The issue of the driving force, [while] we need to be there in support and ‘burden sharing’ has very little to do with it. This is an initia- partnership. tive which is in keeping with our longstanding commitment on South-South cooperation, and in keeping with the prin- ” 30 The African, Caribbean and Pacific Group at 40 31

South-South and triangular cooperation: Sharing Brazil’s experiences

H.E. Verra Barrouin Machado Ambassador of the Federal Republic of Brazil

The common interests of Brazil and ACP Member States as developing countries were highlighted in the example of IBSA – whose membership spans Brazil, India and South Africa, noting in particular the “atmosphere of brotherhood” amongst them as developing countries, which is important to facilitating progress and enabling sustainable development.

razil gives significant support The India-Brazil-South Africa (IBSA) Forum is very close to many ACP projects. We are here my heart. I was the Ambassador of Brazil to India when the to provide greater impetus to the idea to create this group took shape. I believe we also owe development of the ACP coun- a lot to a number of key figures in the Indian government “ tries, not only in multilateral programmes, but also through at the time, along with my Minister of Foreign Affairs, who BBrazil’s presence in many ACP States. Above all, there is an visited India for the first time during my term in office and atmosphere of brotherhood between us that I think creates a remarked, ‘There is much common interest between Brazil very important environment for development, without any and India. We must form a group in which South Africa obstacles between our countries. should also be represented.’ IBSA was established as a result of this convergence of interest and cooperation. ” 32 The African, Caribbean and Pacific Group at 40 33

Pathways to resilience for fragile states: the experience of the G7+

H.E. Michel Présumé Deputy Chair of the G7+ and Deputy Minister of Planning of Haiti

The g7+ is a voluntary association of 20 fragile and conflict affected States, 17 of which are also members of the ACP Group, plus South Sudan, an ACP Observer. The g7+ stresses the importance of including peace building and state building as one of the Sustainable Development Goals of the Post-2015 Development Agenda, as well as promoting fragile to fragile cooperation (F2F), as a subset of South-South cooperation.

hrough peer learning amongst The g7+ has found a new formula in implementing fragile to our Member States and our collec- fragile cooperation known as F2F, a subset of South-South tive advocacy to influence the way cooperation. This framework is based on three main pillars: the international communities implementation of the ‘new deal’ [launched in 2011 to change “ Toperate in our countries, the g7+ family builds pathways the way peace building and state building is promoted]; towards resilience. [Most] members of the 20 g7+ countries dealing with acute and emerging crises; peer learning on are also members of the ACP Group, which has achieved so natural resources management, public finance management much over the last 40 years under very difficult conditions. and peace building & reconciliation. I have no doubt that the ACP Group will reinvent itself so that they can continue to accomplish much more for the I am very pleased to see a peace-related goal (Goal 16) economic development of its members in the coming years. amongst the 17 Sustainable Development Goals… I urge the ACP Group and the international community to embrace The g7+ is now promoting an international campaign motto, this goal so we can ensure that no nation and no people are namely: ‘Goodbye conflict and welcome development’ with a left behind by the global development agenda in the next 15 view to curbing conflict and violence. We realise that there years. can be no development if there is chaos. The leaders and the communities will realise that without peace, they would betray the dreams of all those who died in the quest for inde- pendence. ” 34 The African, Caribbean and Pacific Group at 40 35

Beyond trade: The nexus between culture, democracy and development in intra and extra-ACP cooperation

Ms. Georgina Benrós de Mello Director-General of the Community of Portuguese-speaking Countries (Comunidade dos Países de Língua Portuguesa – CPLP)

The Community of Portuguese Language Countries (CPLP) is an international, intergovernmental organisation marked by geographical discontinuity, but brought together by cultural and linguistic affinities, and shared interests. With Member States located on four continents, the CPLP benefits from rich, multifaceted experience in international cooperation and a wide range of expertise amongst its Member States, giving rise to ample opportunity for cooperation with the ACP Group.

t is important to stress that the pluri- I would add also here the potential role in fostering closer continental reality of the CPLP is not economic cooperation, seeking out synergistic programmes a barrier. Rather, it represents a rich on the transparent management of natural resources, devel- range of opportunities, if we know opment of transport, energy and a major participation of “ how to address this in today’s multipolar global reality, the private sector. [Moreover] the CPLP believes in and still Ifull of challenges. It thus offers huge potential for future works for sharing knowledge, skills and competencies, with partnerships with the ACP Group. a focus on cross-cutting importance of education.

The CPLP is a multilateral dialogue platform at the service It is clear that the intersections we can anticipate between of stability, economic growth and social development of CPLP and the ACP countries on the one hand, and between its member states. In this vein, the existing partnership the CPLP, the European Union and ACP countries on the between the European Union and the ACP countries can other hand, are desirable and destined for success. find in CPLP an international partner for global issues such as good governance, peace and security, migration, educa- tion, science and technology, the defence of democracy and human rights, justice, among others. ” 36 The African, Caribbean and Pacific Group at 40 37

The Turkish Presidency: Priorities for 2015

H.E. Selim Yenel Ambassador of the Republic of Turkey

As Turkey continues its trajectory of economic growth, it has increased its presence in ACP countries, most recently with two new embassies to be opened in Equatorial Guinea and Fiji. As a major emerging economy, Turkey holds the presidency of the Group of 20 (G20) for 2014-2015. During this term, it focuses on implementation, inclusiveness, and investment, with policies that ultimately aim to benefit not only G20 countries, but the entire international community, including ACP countries.

n the last 15 years as Turkey developed Secondly, inclusiveness. The G20’s overarching aim has been itself, we have been able to increase to foster strong, sustainable, and balanced growth. One of our relationship with ACP countries our primary goals are to add inclusive growth to this, both at economically, commercially, politi- national and international levels…. Our message - the G20 is “ cally, and development-wise as well. We have taken up the not only concerned about its own interests, but its policies Ipresidency of the G20 last December, and we will conclude should also benefit the entire community. In sum, a better with a summit in November 2015. Like all presidencies, global dialogue. we have a rather ambitious agenda, and therefore we have come up with an easy slogan, the three I’s – implementation, Lastly, investment. Investment is key to unlocking new inclusiveness and investment. growth and generating new jobs. The public sector cannot do it alone. We need a partnership between the public and Starting off with implementation: it is turning words into the private sector. actions. The G20 members have committed themselves to policy measures estimated to lift collective G20 growth by an We strive in our presidency to be as inclusive, as innovative additional 2.1% over the next five years – or the so called ‘2 in as possible, and to help all countries on an equal basis. Our 5’ target. The IMF (International Monetary Fund) and OECD relationship with ACP will grow, and we hope to be part of (Organisation for Economic and Cooperation Development) the next 40 years. calculate that implementing G20 growth strategies can generate additional USD $2 trillion in the world economy. ” 38 The African, Caribbean and Pacific Group at 40 39

Europe in the global partnerships for development

Mr. Fernando Frutuoso de Melo Director-General of the European Commission’s DG DEVCO

The resilience of the EU-ACP political partnership lies it its ability to adapt to changing circum- stances in order to preserve its essence. Given the major changes in the global arena over the past 40 years, it is necessary for the post-Cotonou relationship to reflect new players, new global challenges, new economic interests and new methods of cooperation.

he EU-ACP is a partnership that such as peace and security issues, new economic interests, constitutes the largest, most new methods of cooperation at regional level. ambitious and most detailed agreement that the EU has with While development cooperation will remain a significant “ Tany other group of States. The three broad pillars of polit- component of our relationship, other dimensions will also ical cooperation, development cooperation and economic have to be taken on board and embedded in a broader frame- and trade cooperation allow us to cover many policy areas work of cooperation and dialogue. This also means that it in pursuit of the values, the principles and the interests will be necessary to look at the instruments of our cooper- that the ACP countries and the EU share. Our partnership ation to ensure that they are appropriate and adequate to is underpinned by strong structured dialogue mechanisms, pursue our common objectives. which go beyond national governments and recognise the important role that is played by parliaments, local govern- Our relationship cannot stand in isolation from the reali- ments and civil society. ties affecting the global scene. Rather, it will benefit if it is capable of evolving into a true political partnership. This Strengthening the partnership and putting in place a should be based on our common interests in the modern far-reaching post-Cotonou framework [to follow the current world, away from the traditional donor-recipient relation- ACP-EU Cotonour Partnership Agreement which ends in ship. It should also enable the ACP Group to take on a more 2020] is one of the key external relations priorities of the influential role in its relations with other groups of states current European Commission. That framework will have around the world. to reflect new realities – new players, new global challenges ” 40 41

Session III Conclusions – The ACP of tomorrow

Moderated by H.E. Ana Nemba Uaiene Ambassador of the Republic of Mozambique 42 The African, Caribbean and Pacific Group at 40 43

The future of trade, investments and development partnerships

Dr. Mariama Williams Senior Research Fellow, South Centre, Geneva

The global context of the 21st century is marked by complex challenges such as rising inequali- ties, changing competitive dynamics, poverty, and climate change to name a few. In this regard, the technical capacity and negotiation skills of the ACP Group in the area of trade and investment is critical to promoting economic transformation and sustainable development as well as , both regionally, and multilaterally.

body such as the ACP Group, which is a At the same time, the 21st century ACP will need to navigate truly globally recognised platform that the way forward in the world of the Post 2015 Development links the major regions of the South, is Agenda. A more necessary than ever in a world of “ growing uncertainties and unpredictability. An institution The ACP of the next 40 years and beyond will be very involved of proven longevity, one that has the trust of the South and in matters way beyond what is narrowly considered as trade one with the capabilities and skills to negotiate in the areas and investment, but will be well grounded in development of trade and investment, is both necessary and important. partnerships around comprehensive economic development issues. The ACP can do this. It is [headquartered] in the heart The ACP of the 21st century faces challenges in the trade of Europe, it knows and understands the pulse of Europe. area, which is increasingly growing with linkages to broader development and national issues, such as , At the same time, ACP has to better understand and crea- health promotion, and domestic policies. There are also tively develop partnership relationships with the growing contestations about the link between trade and invest- plethora of institutions of the South such as the Bank ment and their development dimensions in a world that and the China Infrastructural Bank. The ACP must work to is becoming increasingly and perniciously competitive as counter the narrative of the developed countries with regard developed countries become more concerned about the to China and the other BRICS countries, and forward its own competitive threats from the South, and perceive a decrease thinking and strategic narratives around these investment in their own prowess in managing global economics. flows. ” 44 The African, Caribbean and Pacific Group at 40 45

The dynamics and challenges of global governance: prospects for change

Dr. Siphamandla Zondi Director, Institute for Global Dialogue, South Africa

Since its inception, the ACP Group has historically evolved to respond to the contemporary realities of the geopolitical landscape. At the same time, the nature of ACP-EU relations have not fully trans- formed over time. The challenge for the ACP Group today, is to forge a new path for the future that leverages on its members’ commonalities and solidarity, while building ‘collective self-reliance’ and strategic partnerships with key global actors, in order to bring benefits to its citizens.

here are four things the ACP Group Those same successes can be shifted and used in the nego- needs to think about. One is that tiations on international finance for development, or on there is a need to strengthen the international development effectiveness, and so on. That operationalisation institutionally. substantive agenda should include trade and investment, “ TIt has to have very strong political and administrative struc- with a very strong emphasis on inter-regional trade and tures if it is going to respond to the current challenges of intra-regional trade within the ACP. global governance. Lastly, the ACP Group should consider an ACP fund. However Secondly, in must be stronger in the sense of being inde- small it is, and this is the fund into which those who call pendent. It has to think very carefully about its own ACP ‘friend’ should deposit, if they really mean friendship. vision and strategy, its own idea and ideology, and its own This way, the ACP can also harness the relationship with resources. Recalling the 1955 Asia-Africa Bandung Confer- the emerging powers to contribute to concrete projects, ence, which promoted collective self-reliance, endogenous especially dealing with the SIDS, LDCs and other vulnerable development, solidarity, and international cooperation – members. The ACP has an existence beyond its relationship that is the ideology we should preserve. with the EU, not because of the end of the ACP-EU Cotonou Partnership Agreement but because the Georgetown Agree- Thirdly, we need to refine our substantive agenda by ment was based on the idea of an independent ACP relating harnessing the successes we’ve seen out of the ACP. One of with an independent EU, and now relating with the rest of the greatest successes has been ACP’s ability to provide a the world. platform for coherent positions in the WTO negotiations. ” 46 The African, Caribbean and Pacific Group at 40 47

The impact of globalisation and the prospects of Small States

Professor Dr. Djénéba Traoré Director General, West Africa Institute, Cabo Verde

Small States (the majority of which are ACP member countries) are faced with narrow markets, almost non-existent industrialisation, weakness in the means of transport, lack of competitiveness, lack of raw materials, natural resources sold at low prices, vulnerability to natural disasters and the consequences of climate change. To counter their vulnerability, Small States need to adapt and strengthen their economic resilience in a globalised world.

f the declared goal of globalisation is • Optimise the use of information and communications to give all countries the opportunity to technologies (ICT); trade, it should be noted that all States • Strengthen the capacities of various stakeholders are not equal in terms of the demands concerned, with regard to the concept and the process “ of globalisation and that it benefits some more than others. of globalisation, as well as the geopolitical culture of the I countries of the North; We therefore make the following assumptions and recom- • Improve negotiation skills with the partnership countries, mendations: especially with regard to the Economic Partnership Agree- • for a Small State to overcome the challenges of globali- ments (EPAs) and multinational companies regarding sation, it must have informed and effective leadership contracts for the development of their natural resources, centred on a short and long-term strategic vision and a in order to secure a “win-win “partnership. strategic plan at the national, regional and global level; • States must endeavour to train quality human resources Finally, citizens must be empowered regarding the effort through which it will implement sustainable development needed to achieve the targets set by their respective govern- strategies. ments, because even if development assistance will not • The principle of solidarity must be observed so that the disappear in the near future, it is becoming increasingly smaller States can benefit from the more privileged coun- difficult to acquire and it is becoming increasingly unpop- tries, with legislative and regulatory measures that can ular amongst the donor populations. Therefore, the respon- help them cope with the constraints of globalisation; sibility of ensuring sustainable development and meeting • Union is strength; Small States must also establish the challenges of globalisation must rest, first and foremost, close cooperative ties on the basis of their similarities; with States and citizens. ” 48 The African, Caribbean and Pacific Group at 40 49

Closing remarks and the way forward

H.E Dr. Patrick I Gomes Secretary-General, ACP Group of States

The ACP Group seeks to intensify Intra-ACP collaboration amongst Member States, while also promoting South-South and triangular cooperation as a major modality for delivering on its mandate. The current stage of reorientation also provides an opportunity for the ACP Group and the European Union to recast the world’s most unique and enduring North-South treaty of developed and developing countries, to ensure no one is left behind in the post-2015 global development agenda.

cannot express all the thanks that sphere, and within the wider Caribbean. As regards the Lomé is due to all those who contributed negotiations, the process of unification – for such it was – added to making this event a success. The a new dimension to the ’s quest for economic justice ACP Secretariat is deeply grateful for through international action. Its significance however, derives not “ and appreciates enormously how much has been done. We merely from the terms of the negotiated relationship between the Igive notice that this is only the beginning of several more 46 ACP states and the EEC, but rather from the methodology of conversations of this nature, because we want to learn and unified bargaining which the negotiations pioneered. Never before to be enriched by the insights, experience and wisdom that had so large a segment of the developing world negotiated with is gathered here. so powerful a grouping of developed countries so comprehensive and so innovative a regime of economic relations. It was a new, We also want to refer to some words of someone who and salutary experience for Europe; it was a new, and reassuring, was present in 1975 when [the founding document of the experience for the ACP States.’ ACP Group] the Georgetown Agreement was signed. The then-Foreign Minister of Guyana, Sir Shridath Ramphal He concludes: referred to it this way [in his memoirs, entitled Glimpses of ‘40 years later today as you celebrate your birthday, that lesson a Global Life, 2014]: retains its validity. Unity of purpose and action remains the ‘The second compelling lesson was how critical it was to pool our touchstone of ACP’s meaning and success.’ resources – political, economic and intellectual – in negotiating with countries beyond ourselves; globally, in Europe, the Hemi- I thank you very much. ” ACP Front end paper 2015-11-13 FINAL PRINT.indd 6-7 13.11.15 14:56

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