Botswana, UK Want Fruits Of EPAs

Neo Moroka, Botswana's Trade Minister and his UK counterpart, Gareth Thomas, Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State for Trade and Consumer Affairs in the UK, said at a joint press conference last Thursday that they are optimistic that a deal will be reached.

"I am optimistic that a deal can be reached," said Thomas. "Jobs will be created and that is the number one price for the EPAs". Added Moroka, who is also coordinator of SADC EPA group: "I am committed to the EPAs. There will be more jobs and opportunities for Botswana businesses and its beef". The European Union's 27 member states are currently negotiating a World Trade Organisation (WTO) a compatible trade regime with 76 ACP countries to replace the Cotonou agreement that expired in December 31 2007.