PM expresses hope for better relations with Australia

Prime Minister Commodore Voreqe Bainimarama has expressed his hope for a "new and positive phase" in the relationship between Fiji and Australia.

A Government statement said Commodore Bainimarama has sent Tony Abbott warm congratulations on behalf of the Government and the people of Fiji over what he described as the Coalition leader's decisive victory in the Australian election at the weekend.

Commodore Bainimarama said Fiji had appreciated the understanding shown to it by Abbott's incoming Foreign Minister, Julie Bishop, and looked forward to the era of constructive engagement that she flagged in her comments before the election.

Commodore Bainimarama said Fiji is moving towards the first genuine democratic election in its history next year and there are ample opportunities for renewed collaboration with Australia.

Meanwhile, the Abbott led coalition is expected to make an announcement within days about Fiji.

According to its foreign policy, the coalition said it will work with Fiji to normalise relations as soon as possible.

The first issue to be looked at would be the sanctions.

The coalition's Julie Bishop said they will review the effectiveness of the sanctions and work with regional partners seeking to open negotiations with the Fijian government to promote electoral reform.

Issues like Fiji's suspension from the Commonwealth and the Pacific Islands Forum will also be reviewed.

Tony Abbott has also vowed to reduce the foreign aid budget by Australian $4.5bn.


Story by: Sofaia Koroitanoa and Vijay Narayan