Aust/NZ Oppose Fiji Chairmanship

There was a bit of drama at the Pacific Regional Disaster Management meeting currently being held in Nadi after there was some opposition to Interim Defense and Immigration Minister Ratu Epeli Ganilau chairing the meet.

Ratu Epeli confirmed to Fijivillage earlier that some representatives from Australia and New Zealand had raised concerns on Fiji being given the chairmanship role.

However, in a press statement issued today, the Australian High Commission said they do not have any objections to Ganilau as the chair of the forum and their representatives have returned to talks.

Meanwhile, Australia reiterated that they will continue to help Pacific countries prepare and respond to any natural disaster.

The launch of the Pacific Disaster Net had been called off and the meet is expected to end this afternoon at 5pm, following which Ratu Epeli will make a statement.