Trade relations between European Union and countries from the African, Caribbean and Pacific (ACP) regions have never been simple or harmonious. In the wake of the global economic and financial crisis, ongoing negotiations over so-called Economic Partnerships Agreements (EPAs) have led to often-heated debates over perceived EU intentions and ACP limitations.

The European Journalism Centre (EJC) and the European Commission’s DG Trade are co-organising a two-day seminar on June 21-22 to examine the state of play. The seminar will provide an overview of current EU-ACP trade policy, an analysis of trade agreements today from Lomé to Cotonou to EPAs, as well as key issues such as accountability in trade and relevant case studies involving the implementation of EPAs until now.

The second day of the seminar will take registered journalists to the Port of Antwerp, Europe’s second largest by total freight shipped. There they will see first hand EU customs and excise as well as security procedures for ACP imported goods such as coffee, sugar, textiles and fresh flowers.

Speakers at this briefing will range from EU high ranking officials and policy makers to experts from European-based think-tanks and experienced EU correspondents.

The seminar will be conducted in English. Travel, accommodation and all programme meals are covered by the organisers.

If you are interested in attending this seminar, please register and apply online at www.ejcseminars.eu or contact Project Assistant Cristina Romero ([email protected])

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