Sanctions imposed by EU to remain till Oct 1st

Sanctions imposed against Fiji by the European Union will remain in place until October 1st, 2010 after the EU nations yesterday decided to extend the sanctions by another six months.
 
Despite Prime Minister Commodore Voreqe Bainimarama stressing to the international community for understanding and support towards elections in 2014, the 27 EU nations said in an agreed statement that the measures, largely involve stopping EU development funding for the Fiji government.

However, the EU stressed that Humanitarian aid and direct support to civil society can continue.

The European Union statement said that "a credible and inclusive process which would result in progress in the Fiji government's reform programme and early restoration of democracy would prepare the ground for new consultations, on the sanctions.

The EU said the appropriate measures are designed to assist the Fiji Islands in the transition and development projects that were already initiated in 2007 are to be executed as
planned.

Fiji's sugar allocation for 2010 also depends on the developments whereas sugar allocations for the years 2007 to 2009 were cancelled.

The EU's Humanitarian assistance towards Fiji continues as the EU donated $2 million towards rehabilitation of schools following cyclone Tomas.

Minister for Foreign Affairs Ratu Inoke Kubuabola is currently in a meeting and could not be reached for comments.