Fiji, June 4 -- Trade in the Pacific must deliver benefits beyond economic growth and ensure opportunities reach women, vulnerable groups and communities that have traditionally been left out of economic activity, Forum deputy Secretary General Desna Solofa said Wednesday.

Opening the Pacific Aid-for-Trade Day at the Pacific Islands Forum Secretariat in Suva, Solofa told senior trade officials, Pacific Women Leaders representatives, development partners and regional stakeholders that inclusive trade is critical to achieving the region's long-term development goals.

"This year's theme, 'Inclusive and Sustainable Trade in the Blue Pacific: Integrating a Gender Equality and Social Inclusion Lens Across Aid-for-Trade Initiatives,' speaks di...