The final speaker in the opening session was Development Commissioner, Joao de Deus Pinheiro. The ACPs are the 'owners' of their future development and this must be reflected in the discussions. A political partnership. Europe, in forging ahead, was acquiring a more marked political dimension and this should lead to a deeper dialogue with the ACPs. Bringing in new partners.
Civil society wants a more active role in the system.
Reflecting this, the Commission would propose giving non-governmental actors the opportunity to participate, and there would be systematic consultation. The trade dimension . The options here would have to be weighed carefully and anything decided must be in line with WTO rules. There was a need, however, for ACPs to be given time to adapt. Participants at the meeting went on to discuss more detailed questions in five thematic 'round tables'.