Relations between Fiji’s interim government, Australia and New Zealand have plummeted since Fiji’s military commander Frank Bainimarama took power in December 2006
Smith said the visits to Fiji this week by the Pacific Islands Forum Ministerial Contact Group was constructive.
“Its not an Australia’s interest to not have a good relationship with Fiji .Its not in New Zealand interest to not have a good relationship with Fiji. It’s not in the regions interest,” Smith said.
“We want Fiji to return as a full fledge member of the region. We want it to be business as usual. There is one way to ensure is business as usual, that’s to conduct a full free and fair election with the participation of all political players,” he added. “When that occurs, travel sanctions between Australia and Fiji will not be an issue.”
Last month, Australia endorsed the appointment of an acting high commissioner in Canberra and a consul-general in Sydney.
Former Fiji Labor Party MP, Kamlesh Arya has been appointed to Canberra and senior civil servant Cama Tuiloma will be posted to New Zealand. Private sector executive, Karai Vuibai will be Fiji’s new consul general in Sydney.
