Republican win may fast-track free trade
A victory for Republican John McCain in the United States presidential race could result in the fast-tracking of a free trade accord with New Zealand.
Republican senator Richard Shelby made this observation after meeting Trade Minister Phil Goff on Wednesday and Foreign Affairs Minister Winston Peters yesterday.
Following a visit to New Zealand in 2006, Mr McCain asked President George W Bush to open negotiations.
Mr Goff acknowledged that a Democrat administration would be more cautious in setting up talks.
New Zealand and Australian agriculture, trade and industry ministers are attending the annual CER Ministerial Forum in Melbourne today.
- © Fairfax NZ News
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