Fiji will not be moved by the Pacific Island Forum’s decision to keep Fiji suspended from the regional bloc says Attorney General Aiyaz Sayed-Khaiyum.
Though the Forum noted Fiji’s progress towards democracy they maintain no major changes will happen until after elections.
Former Pacific Islands Forum chair John Keys says a reason Fiji was not reinstated is because of serious questions such as what happens to the military and whether they will be sent back to the barracks after the elections.
Sayed Khaiyum says Australia and New Zealands non-engagement with Fiji created the situation but Fiji is always willing to talk.
“We are always open to engage with everybody. As long as they respect our sovereignty. We will not adhere to any bullying tactics that is used by foreign countries.”
He says Fiji’s inclusion in an alternate forum the Pacific Islands Development Forum should send a clear message to Australia and New Zealand.
“I think Australia and New Zealand need to question themselves on how they think they can position themselves in the Pacific.”
The Pacific section of the Africa, Caribbean and Pacific (APC) group has decided Fiji should again be allowed to participate in its processes, despite its suspension from the Forum
