Fiji Keen To Keep Talking Despite Lobby Groups ­

Fiji Keen To Keep Talking Despite Lobby Groups ­ Kubuabola.

17/09/00

FIJI KEEN TO KEEP TALKING DESPITE LOBBY GROUPS ­ KUBUABOLA.

The Information Minister, Ratu Inoke Kubuabola today stressed that the Interim Administration is determined to talk to the international community despite the campaign being conducted by members of the deposed People¹s Coalition Government and other neighbouring countries.

Responding to the reported resolution of the Commonwealth Ministerial Action Group on Fiji, the Information Minister said that "to an extent, this is expected."

"To some extent, you can expect this given the single-minded Australian and New Zealand campaign against us. Because of their own internal problems, they are totally opposed to any articulation of indigenous rights," the Information Minister said.

The Information Minister added that the Prime Minister¹s speech at the United Nations is just the beginning of the administration¹s keenness to inform the world of its cause.

"Obviously we have some friends in the Commonwealth as the Commonwealth is prepared to have dialogue with us as we are with them."

"The PM¹s UN speech was well received and this would be a platform to build upon. Even at the CMAG meet, PM Qarase¹s remarks were appreciated."

Permanent Secretary in the Prime Minister¹s Office, Jioji Kotobalavu who is with the Prime Minister in New York, added that indeed the PM¹s message to the UN and to the international community was taken well.

This is despite the campaign that dismissed Fiji Prime Minister, Mahendra Chaudhry and other members of his former Government have been conducting in overseas countries.

PM Qarase meanwhile appealed to the CMAG to try to understand the particular circumstances in Fiji.

In addressing the CMAG yesterday, PM Qarase said the Fiji situation is a complex issue warranting its own solution.

"The Constitution Commission that will shortly be appointed will be representative of the ethnic communities in Fiji and will fully engage in interactive nationwide consultations."

"Care will be taken to ensure a comprehensive consultation process with all levels of Fijian community."

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