A strong call for fairness regarding the issuance of visas to Fijians travelling to European Union member countries has been made by Prime Minister Voreqe Bainimarama at the opening of the Fiji-EU third enhanced political dialogue in Suva.
Bainimarama says Fiji as a democracy and as an equal partner to its friends in the EU finds it unfortunate that they still have to discuss the issuance of visas for Fijians travelling to EU member countries.
Bainimarama also said the government is deeply appreciative of the financial assistance granted by the EU to assist the sugar cane industry but hopes more assistance will be given.
Bainimarama also said that as the case in 2014, the 2018 elections will be conducted by the independent Electoral Commission and the Fijian Elections Office with its mandate to ensure that the outcome will reflect the will of the Fijian people.
EU Ambassador to Fiji and the Pacific Julian Wilson says easing travel arrangements between Fiji and the European Union is high priority.
The meeting will be held for the next two days in Suva.
