The United States government says Fiji’s growing relations with China and the Asian region is not an issue for the US.
Assistant Secretary of State for East Asian and Pacific Affairs, Daniel Russel made the comment at a press conference in Suva.
“We have no problem with Chinese influence. The question is, does the engagement and involvement of Chinese businesses, tourists, government and military serve the long term interests of your people. Influence is fine, coercion is not.”
Russel pointed out that the US is keen to pick up where things left off in 2006.
The senior official was on a one-day courtesy call to Fiji yesterday where he met with Prime Minister Voreqe Bainimarama and later the members of the Opposition.
His talks with Bainimarama centered on climate change, global terrorism and international peace and security.
Russel says his visit is a result of successful elections last year.
