NationMaster - Encyclopedia: Foreign relations of Fiji

Fiji has had many coups recently, in 1987, 2000 and 2006. Fiji has been suspended various times from the Commonwealth of Nations, a grouping of mostly former British colonies. It was readmitted to the Commonwealth in December 2001, following the parliamentary election held to restore democracy in September that year, and is currently suspended again after the 2006 coup. Other Pacific Island governments have generally been sympathetic to Fiji's internal political problems and have declined to take public positions. Fiji maintains direct diplomatic or consular relations with countries with historical, culrural, or trading ties to Fiji; Ambassadors stationed in such countries are often accredited to neighbouring countries. ... Information on politics by country is available for every country, including both de jure and de facto independent states, inhabited dependent territories, as well as areas of special sovereignty. ... Image File history File links Current_event_marker. ... Image File history File links No higher resolution available. ... The Fiji coup of 2000 was a complicated affair involving a civilian putsch by hardline Fijian nationalists against the elected government of Prime Minister Mahendra Chaudhry on 19 May 2000, the attempt by President Ratu Sir Kamisese Mara to assert executive authority on 27 May, and his own resignation, possibly... The Fijian coup dÃ©tat of December 2006 occurred as a continuation of the pressure which had been building since the military unrest of the 2000 Fijian coup dÃ©tat and 2005-2006 Fijian political crisis. ... The Commonwealth of Nations (CN), usually known as The Commonwealth, is a voluntary association of 53 independent sovereign states all of which are former colonies of the United Kingdom, except for Mozambique and the United Kingdom itself. ... The British Empire in 1897, marked in pink, the traditional colour for Imperial British dominions on maps. ... The Constitution of Fiji was restored by a Supreme Court decision, following the failure of the Fiji coup of 2000. ... The Fijian coup dÃ©tat of December 2006 occurred as a continuation of the pressure which had been building since the military unrest of the 2000 Fijian coup dÃ©tat and 2005-2006 Fijian political crisis. ...

Fiji became the 127th member of the United Nations on October 13, 1970, and participates actively in the organization. Fiji's contributions to UN peacekeeping are unique for a nation of its size. It maintains nearly 1,000 soldiers overseas in UN peacekeeping missions, mainly in the Middle East. The foundation of the U.N. The United Nations (UN) is an international organization whose stated aims are to facilitate co-operation in international law, international security, economic development, social progress and human rights issues. ... October 13 is the 286th day of the year (287th in leap years) in the Gregorian calendar. ... 1970 (MCMLXX) was a common year starting on Thursday. ... A map showing countries commonly considered to be part of the Middle East The Middle East is a region comprising the lands around the southern and eastern parts of the Mediterranean Sea, a territory that extends from the eastern Mediterranean Sea to the Persian Gulf. ...

Since independence, Fiji has been a leader in the South Pacific region, and has played a leading role in the formation of the South Pacific Forum. Fiji has championed causes of common interest to Pacific Island countries. Look up Oceania in Wiktionary, the free dictionary. ... The Pacific Islands Forum is an inter-governmental consultative process which aims to enhance cooperation between the countries of the Pacific Ocean and represent their interests. ... The Pacific Ocean contains an estimated 20,000 to 30,000 islands; the exact number has not been precisely determined. ...

Diplomatic and trade developments

Tensions with the United States

On 2 March 2005, Prime Minister Laisenia Qarase strongly reacted to a U.S. State Department report criticizing Fiji for practicing racial discriminiation, and for the racial divide between Fiji's two main political parties, the SDL (mostly indigenous Fijian) and the Fiji Labour Party (mostly Indo-Fijian). "Fiji can make a similar report on the US on all those issues. Our report would be far worse than the US State Department's report on Fiji," he said. He went on to rebuke the United States for interfering in Fiji's "domestic affairs." March 2 is the 61st day of the year in the Gregorian Calendar (62nd in leap years). ... 2005 (MMV) was a common year starting on Saturday of the Gregorian calendar. ... Fiji received its independence in 1970. ... Laisenia Qarase (born February 4, 1941) was Prime Minister of Fiji from 2000 to 2006. ... The United States Department of State, often referred to as the State Department, is the Cabinet-level foreign affairs agency of the United States government, equivalent to foreign ministries in other countries. ... A political party is a political organization subscribing to a certain ideology or formed around very special issues with the aim to participate in power, usually by participating in elections. ... The United Fiji Party (Fijian: Soqosoqo Duavata ni Lewenivanua) is a political party in Fiji. ... Indigenous Fijians are the major indigenous people of the Fiji Islands. ... The Fiji Labour Party is a political party in Fiji. ... Indo-Fijians are people born in Fiji, but are ethnically Indian. ... The United States Department of State, often referred to as the State Department, is the Cabinet-level foreign affairs agency of the United States government, equivalent to foreign ministries in other countries. ...

In an interview with the Fiji Times on 29 May 2005, America's outgoing Ambassador David Lyons renewed his country's criticism of Fijian policies by criticizing the Qarase government's proposed Reconciliation and Unity Commission. Lyons expressed concern that its provisions for amnesty for persons convicted of involvement in the coup d'etat that overthrew the elected government in 2000 would encourage further coups in the future. "If a democratic society doesn't make it clear that the violent over-throw of its elected leaders is a crime against that society, I have to think that it is inviting future upheaval," he said. He also condemned statements of public figures predicting coups if they, their party, or their race is not successful in the next parliamentary election, saying that such threats were "absolutely despicable in a free, democratic society" and constituted "the worst form of scaremongering." Fiji Times Online The Fiji Times is a daily newspaper published in Fiji. ... May 29 is the 149th day of the year in the Gregorian calendar (150th in leap years). ... 2005 (MMV) was a common year starting on Saturday of the Gregorian calendar. ... An ambassador, rarely embassador, is a diplomatic official accredited to a foreign sovereign or government, or to an international organization, to serve as the official representative of his or her own country. ... David Lyons (born 15 June 1980 in Orange, NSW) plays number eight for the Australian national rugby union team. ... The Reconciliation and Unity Commission is a proposed government body to be set up if the Reconciliation, Tolerance, and Unity Bill, which was introduced into the Fijian Parliament on May 4, 2005, is passed. ... The Fiji coup of 2000 was a complicated affair involving a civilian putsch by hardline Fijian nationalists against the elected government of Prime Minister Mahendra Chaudhry on 19 May 2000, the attempt by President Ratu Sir Kamisese Mara to assert executive authority on 27 May, and his own resignation, possibly... The Constitution of Fiji requires general elections for the House of Representatives to be held at least once every five years. ...

Lyons said that the amnesty for perpetrators of the 1987 coups had been an error of judgement and had set a precedent which could negatively affect the future unless stopped now. He concurred with statements made by a number of Fijian politicians, including deposed Prime Minister Mahendra Chaudhry and Senator Adi Koila Nailatikau, that a coup culture had taken root in Fiji. He warned that tourism, which forms the mainstay of the Fijian economy, would be adversely impacted by any further instability. He believed, he said, that the Qarase government was sincere in its commitment to democracy, and acknowledged positive steps taken by the government to restore the rule of law. He added a word of caution, however: "All of these positive steps ... will vanish in an instant if there is another coup or sufficient political upheaval questioning the legitimacy of future elections." Fiji Coups of 1987 refers to the 1987 overthrow of the government of Fiji by Lieutenant Colonel Sitiveni Rabuka, then third in command of the Royal Fiji Military Forces. ... Mahendra Pal Chaudhry (born 9 February 1942) is the leader of the Fiji Labour Party and currently the Leader of the Opposition in Parliament. ... The Senate of Fiji is the upper chamber of Parliament. ... Adi Koila Mara Nailatikau Adi Koila Mara Nailatikau is a Fijian lawyer, who has served as a career diplomat and politician. ... Endowed with forest, mineral, and fish resources, Fiji is one of the most developed of the Pacific island economies, though it remains a developing country with a large subsistence agriculture sector. ...

On 12 July, however, Lyons cautioned the Fijian Military against using the legislation as a pretext for a coup d'état. Their concern over the proposed law was understandable, he said, but it did warrant the overthrow of the government. "Extra constitutional action against a duly elected democratic government ... is unacceptable," he said. A coup would be detrimental not only to Fiji, but to the entire Pacific region, Lyons said. July 12 is the 193rd day (194th in leap years) of the year in the Gregorian calendar, with 172 days remaining. ...

The United States suspended $2.5 million in aid money pending a review of the situation, following the 2006 coup.^[1]

Relations with Israel

Relations with Israel have generally been cordial, with Fiji usually taking positions sympathetic to Israel in United Nations resolutions. Relations were strained in July 2006, however, when three Israelis, who arrived in Fiji on the 13th, were arrested and deported. Amit Ronen, Eldar Avracohen, and Nimrod Lahav were detained in a jail cell at Nadi Airport for six hours and deported to Australia the next day, for alleged mistreatment of Palestinians by Israel.^[2] The foundation of the U.N. The United Nations (UN) is an international organization whose stated aims are to facilitate co-operation in international law, international security, economic development, social progress and human rights issues. ... Early elections in November are announced in the Netherlands. ... (Redirected from 13 July) July 13th is the 194th day (195th in leap years) of the year in the Gregorian Calendar, with 171 days remaining. ... The term Palestinian has other usages, for which see definitions of Palestinian. ...

Relations with Australia

On 13 April 2005, Qarase rejected criticism from Australia and some other countries over the prosecution and imprisonment of two foreigners charged with committing homosexual acts, which are illegal in Fiji, and said that other countries needed to respect Fiji's independence. Qarase said that as member of the United Nations, Fiji was as entitled as any other country to make its own laws as it saw fit. April 13 is the 103rd day of the year in the Gregorian calendar (104th in leap years). ... 2005 (MMV) was a common year starting on Saturday of the Gregorian calendar. ... Homosexuality refers to sexual interaction and / or romantic attraction between individuals of the same sex. ...

The Australian government has taken a more measured position than its New Zealand counterpart (q.v.) over the controversial Reconciliation, Tolerance, and Unity Bill currently being debated in the Fijian Parliament. Susan Boyd, a former Australian High Commissioner to Fiji, has strongly criticized the legislation, but Foreign Minister Alexander Downer has said that it is an "internal matter" and that Australia does not want to get involved. He did, however, condemn recent threats from the Military commander, Commodore Frank Bainimarama, to declare martial law and arrest members of the present government if the bill is passed. The Australian High Commission in Suva told Bainimarama that his threats are not "the proper role for the military in a democracy." The Reconciliation and Unity Commission is a proposed government body to be set up if the Reconciliation, Tolerance, and Unity Bill, which was introduced into the Fijian Parliament on May 4, 2005, is passed. ... Fijis Parliament is bicameral. ... A High Commissioner is a person serving in a special executive capacity. ... R. G. Casey House, the headquarters of the Australian Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade This is a list of Australian Foreign Ministers: Note: Prior to 1970, the office was known as the Minister for External Affairs. ... Alexander John Gosse Downer, MP (born 9 September 1951), Australian politician, became Foreign Minister of Australia in March 1996. ... Commodore is a military rank used in some navies for officers whose position exceeds that of a Captain, but is less than that of a Flag Officer. ... Commodore Voreqe Bainimarama Commodore Josaia Voreqe Bainimarama MSD, OStJ, Fijian Navy, popularly known as Frank Bainimarama, (born 27 April 1954) is the Commander of the Fijian Military Forces. ... For other uses, see Martial law (disambiguation). ...

Australian Foreign Minister Alexander Downer visited Fiji for two days of talks, from 28-30 September 2005. Downer met government ministers and officials, Opposition Leader Mahendra Chaudhry, and Military commander Commodore Frank Bainimarama. The talks covered the controversial Unity bill, as well as the future of Fiji's preferential trade access to the Australian market, which the Fijian government regards as a priority. Downer said that he intended to elaborate further on Prime Minister John Howard's promise of a seven-year extension of the SPARTECA-TCF scheme, which assists Fiji's textile, clothing, and footwear industry. R. G. Casey House, the headquarters of the Australian Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade This is a list of Australian Foreign Ministers: Note: Prior to 1970, the office was known as the Minister for External Affairs. ... Alexander John Gosse Downer, MP (born 9 September 1951), Australian politician, became Foreign Minister of Australia in March 1996. ... (Redirected from 28 September) September 28 is the 271st day of the year (272nd in leap years). ... September 30 is the 273rd day of the year (274th in leap years) in the Gregorian calendar. ... 2005 (MMV) was a common year starting on Saturday of the Gregorian calendar. ... The post of Leader of the Opposition is a political office common in countries that are part of the Commonwealth of Nations. ... Mahendra Pal Chaudhry (born 9 February 1942) is the leader of the Fiji Labour Party and currently the Leader of the Opposition in Parliament. ... Commodore is a military rank used in some navies for officers whose position exceeds that of a Captain, but is less than that of a Flag Officer. ... Commodore Voreqe Bainimarama Commodore Josaia Voreqe Bainimarama MSD, OStJ, Fijian Navy, popularly known as Frank Bainimarama, (born 27 April 1954) is the Commander of the Fijian Military Forces. ... The current (25th) Prime Minister of Australia, John Howard (sitting, fifth from left), with his Cabinet, 1999 The office of Prime Minister is in practice the most powerful political office in the Commonwealth of Australia. ... John Winston Howard (born 26 July 1939), Australian politician, is the Prime Minister of Australia. ...

Foreign Minister Tavola expressed grave concern on 7 February 2006 about a proposed regional trade agreement (RTA) between Australia and China, saying that Fiji's exports to Australia would be unable to compete with Chinese products. For that reason, Fiji was persisting in its efforts to persuade Australia to renew the South Pacific Regional Trade and Economic Cooperation - Textile Clothing Footwear (SPARTECA-TCF) scheme, to improve the competitiveness of Fijian exports, the Fiji Live news service reported. February 7 is the 38th day of the year in the Gregorian calendar. ... For the Manfred Mann album, see 2006 (album). ... A regional trade agreement is an economic trade agreement to reduce tariffs and restrictions on trade between two or more nations within a certain region. ... Fiji Live is an online newspaper and business and cultural directory in Fiji. ...

The Fiji Times reported on 14 September 2006 that Prime Ministers Qarase and Howard had discussed possible Australian assistance for the reform of Fiji's sugar industry, with Howard reported receptive to giving aid. Qarase said that he had asked Australia to provide two or three experts to help with the establishment of the proposed Fiji Research Sugar Institute. Fiji Times Online The Fiji Times is a daily newspaper published in Fiji. ... September 14 is the 257th day of the year in the Gregorian calendar (258th in leap years). ... For the Manfred Mann album, see 2006 (album). ...

About the current coup, Australia's Foreign Minister Alexander Downer has said that the military were "slowly trying to take control" and pressure the PM to resign.^[3] Other notable Australians have also commented on the situation such as Australian Prime Minister John Howard. It was reported that Prime Ministers Qarase asked Australian Prime Minister John Howard for military assistance should a coup take place but was refused. Alexander John Gosse Downer, MP (born 9 September 1951), Australian politician, became Foreign Minister of Australia in March 1996. ... John Winston Howard (born 26 July 1939), Australian politician, is the Prime Minister of Australia. ... John Winston Howard (born 26 July 1939), Australian politician, is the Prime Minister of Australia. ...

Relations with China and Taiwan

A diplomatic row with the People's Republic of China erupted on 5 May 2005, when Taiwan (ROC) President Chen Shui-bian arrived for a private visit and was welcomed at a private function at Suva's Sheraton Resort by Vice-President Ratu Joni Madraiwiwi, Ratu Ovini Bokini (Chairman of the Great Council of Chiefs), Senate President Taito Waqavakatoga and several other Senators and MPs, and several judges including Chief Justice Daniel Fatiaki. Foreign Minister Kaliopate Tavola asserted that those who attended the welcoming ceremony did so "of their own accord," not as government representatives, and that Prime Minister Qarase's presence in the same hotel where President Chen was staying was purely "coincidental." Chinese Ambassador Cai Jin Biao rejected this explanation, and said that the visit was a violation of the One China Policy, to which Fiji had agreed when diplomatic relations were established in 1975, which would "sabotage relations between China and Fiji." He charged that Prime Minister Qarase and Foreign Minister Tavola had known of the upcoming visit for months. The embassy issued a further statement on 7 May, demanding that Fiji discontinue any effort to establish a dialogue with Taiwan. May 5 is the 125th day of the year in the Gregorian calendar (126th in leap years). ... 2005 (MMV) was a common year starting on Saturday of the Gregorian calendar. ... Motto: Three Principles of the People (ä¸‰æ°‘ä¸»ç¾© San-min Chu-i) Anthem: National Anthem of the Republic of China Capital Taipei (de facto) Nanjing (de jure)1 Largest city Taipei Official languages Mandarin (GuÃ³yÇ”) Government Semi-presidential system - President Chen Shui-bian - Vice President Annette Lu - Premier Su Tseng-chang... The Presidential Building is located in Zhongzheng District, Taipei City. ... Chen Shui-bian, President of the Republic of China Chen Shui-bian (ch. ... Suva is the capital of Fiji. ... The Fijian vice-presidency is a mostly ceremonial office. ... Ratu is a title used by Fijians of chiefly rank. ... Ratu Joni Madraiwiwi Ratu Joni Madraiwiwi (born 1957) is the Vice-President of Fiji. ... Ratu is a title used by Fijians of chiefly rank. ... Ratu Ovini Bokini is a Fijian statesman. ... The Great Council of Chiefs The Great Council of Chiefs (Bose Levu Vakaturaga in Fijian) is a formal assembly of Fijis senior hereditary chiefs, along with some representatives of the national government and provincial councils, who may or may not be hereditary chiefs themselves. ... The Great Council of Chiefs (Bose Levu Vakaturaga in Fijian) is a constitutional body in the Republic of the Fiji Islands. ... Senator Taito Waqavakatoga Taito Waqavakatoga is the President of the Fijian Senate. ... The Senate of Fiji is the upper chamber of Parliament. ... Overview The House of Representatives is the lower chamber of Fijis Parliament. ... The Chief Justice is Fijis highest judicial officer. ... Daniel Fatiaki Daniel Fatiaki is the Chief Justice of Fiji. ... The Minister for Foreign Affairs (commonly known as the Foreign Minister) is Fijis Cabinet Minister responsible for international relations and diplomacy. ... Kaliopate Tavola Kaliopate Tavola is a Fijian economist, diplomat, and politician, who has been his countrys Minister for Foreign Affairs since 2000. ... An ambassador, rarely embassador, is a diplomatic official accredited to a foreign sovereign or government, or to an international organization, to serve as the official representative of his or her own country. ... The One-China policy (Chinese: 一個中國) is the principle that there is one China and both mainland China and Taiwan are part of that China. ... May 7 is the 127th day of the year in the Gregorian calendar (128th in leap years). ...

The row escalated when, on 16 May, Health Minister Solomone Naivalu voted in support of Taiwan's bid to gain observer status at the World Health Assembly in Geneva. Naivalu had apparently done so on his own initiative, contrary to a government briefing, sparking a major public disagreement between himself and Foreign Minister Tavola. Jia Qinglin, chairman of the People's Political Consultative Conference (CPPCC), was dispatched to Fiji and met Prime Minister Qarase during a brief stopover on 21-22 May, a move that Tavola said was not coincidental. He said that Fiji could not afford to lose China, and that the government would ensure that "careless incidences" like Naivalu's vote in Geneva would not recur. Naivalu responded by saying that his vote was nothing new: "We always support Taiwan to get observer status every year," he said. May 16 is the 136th day of the year in the Gregorian calendar (137th in leap years). ... Solomone Naivalu is a Fijian politician, who currently serves in the Cabinet as Minister for Health. ... The World Health Assembly is the forum through which the World Health Organization (WHO) is governed by its 192 member states. ... Hunters a cool hobo For other uses, see Geneva (disambiguation). ... Jia Qinglin (Simplified Chinese: , Traditional Chinese: ; pinyin: JiÇŽ QÃ¬nglÃn) (born March 1940, Botou, Hebei Province) is the fourth ranking member of the Politburo Standing Committee of the Communist Party of China, and the Chairman of the Peoples Political Consultative Conference. ... The Chinese Peoples Political Consultative Conference (中国人民政治协商会议 Pinyin: Zhongguo renmin zhengzhi xieshang huiyi), abbreviated CPPCC, is an advisory body in the Peoples Republic of China. ... (Redirected from 21 May) May 21 is the 141st day of the year in the Gregorian calendar (142nd in leap years). ... May 22 is the 142nd day of the year in the Gregorian calendar (143rd in leap years). ...

On 10 December 2005, the New Zealand Herald quoted Tavola as saying that Fiji would have to find a way to resolve a stand-off between the PRC and Taiwan, over membership of the Suva-based Council of South Pacific Tourism Organisation; China was resisting Taiwanese attempts to join the organization on an equal basis. "If China had its way it would not want Taiwan on that. So we have to resolve the situation amicably and are looking at how both countries can be represented there,"'Tavola said. December 10 is the 344th day (345th in leap years) of the year in the Gregorian calendar, 21 days before the next year. ... 2005 (MMV) was a common year starting on Saturday of the Gregorian calendar. ... The New Zealand Herald is a daily broadsheet newspaper published in Auckland, New Zealand. ...

In defence of the earlier incident over the Taiwanese President's visit, Tavola said that it was the Pacific way to welcome people. "Even when considering Taiwan as a province of China, he went on, the President of a province is a man of high profile, so when he comes there is an urge to extend hospitality." It did not signify any modification to Fiji's adherence to the One China policy, he had explained to the Chinese ambassador.

China has invested in a number of major projects in Fiji. These include the Suva sports stadium, built for the South Pacific Games of 2003. The South Pacific Games is a Multi-sport event, much like the Olympics, (albeit on a much smaller scale), with participation exclusively from countries around the South Pacific. ...

On 14 December 2005, Fiji's Military Commander, Commodore Frank Bainimarama began an official visit to China, at the invitation of the People's Liberation Army. He reaffirmed Fiji's support for the One China policy. December 14 is the 348th day of the year (349th in leap years) in the Gregorian Calendar. ... 2005 (MMV) was a common year starting on Saturday of the Gregorian calendar. ... Commodore is a military rank used in some navies for officers whose position exceeds that of a Captain, but is less than that of a Flag Officer. ... Commodore Voreqe Bainimarama Commodore Josaia Voreqe Bainimarama MSD, OStJ, Fijian Navy, popularly known as Frank Bainimarama, (born 27 April 1954) is the Commander of the Fijian Military Forces. ... This does not adequately cite its references or sources. ...

It was announced on 24 January 2006 that Chinese Premier Wen Jiabao would visit Fiji in April to open the China-Pacific Islands Countries Economic Development & Cooperation Forum Ministerial Conference 2006 at Sofitel Fiji Resort in Nadi, a conference of economic and trade ministers from Pacific island countries. Six Prime Ministers from neighbouring countries are expected to participate, according to a Fiji Times report on 23 February. His visit to Fiji will be the first by a senior Chinese government official. January 24 is the 24th day of the year in the Gregorian calendar. ... For the Manfred Mann album, see 2006 (album). ... The Premier ( Chinese: 总理 pinyin: zŏnglĭ), sometimes referred to as the Prime Minister, is the Chairman of the State Council of the Peoples Republic of China and head of Central Peoples Government. ... Wen Jiabao (Simplified Chinese: ; Traditional Chinese: ; pinyin: ; Wade-Giles: Wen Chia-pao) (born September 1942) is the Premier of the State Council of the Peoples Republic of China. ... April 2006 : â† - January - February - March - April - May - June - July - August - September - October - November - December- â†’ Marcos Pontes, Brazils first astronaut, reaches the International Space Station. ... Fiji Times Online The Fiji Times is a daily newspaper published in Fiji. ... February 23 is the 54th day of the year in the Gregorian calendar. ...

In an interview with PACNEWS on 1 February 2006, Jeremaia Waqanisau, Fiji's Ambassador to Beijing, made a stinging attack on the efficiency of the Fijian civil service, saying that it negatively affected Fiji's ability to present itself to China. Cabinet Ministers visited China without the Fijian embassy being informed, he complained. Certain civil servants were extremely passive in their dealings with China, he said. Another factor inhibiting Chinese investment was the instability caused by friction between the government and the Military, he surmised, and the Fijian embassy in Beijing was continually engaged in damage control. February 1 is the 32nd day of the year in the Gregorian Calendar. ... For the Manfred Mann album, see 2006 (album). ... H.E. Jeremaia Waqanisau Jeremaia Mocevakaca Waqanisau is a Fijian career soldier, civil servant, and diplomat, who has served since April 2004 as his countrys Ambassador to China. ... An ambassador, rarely embassador, is a diplomatic official accredited to a foreign sovereign or government, or to an international organization, to serve as the official representative of his or her own country. ... (Chinese: ; Pinyin: BÄ›ijÄ«ng; IPA: ), a metropolis in northern China, is the capital of the Peoples Republic of China (PRC). ... Fiji has the Westminster system - executive authority is vested nominally in a President, but exercised in practice by a Cabinet of Ministers, presided over by the Prime Minister. ... A diplomatic mission is a group of people from one nation state present in another nation state to represent the sending state in the receiving State. ... The tension between Fijis government and Military forces, which had been simmering for more than two years, appeared to escalate in late December 2005. ...

Relations with New Zealand

On 10 June 2005, Foreign Minister Tavola signed a Memorandum of Understanding with his New Zealand counterpart, Phil Goff, aimed at fostering cooperation in the fight against terrorism. Meanwhile, New Zealand's Prime Minister Helen Clark announced that New Zealand would double its annual aid to Fiji, from NZ$4 million to NZ$8 million. Much of this aid, the Fijian government revealed, would be used for poverty alleviation and squatter resettlement. June 10 is the 161st day of the year in the Gregorian calendar (162nd in leap years), with 204 days remaining. ... 2005 (MMV) was a common year starting on Saturday of the Gregorian calendar. ... The Minister of Foreign Affairs is a major portfolio in the Cabinet of New Zealand. ... Foreign Minister Phil Goff The Honourable Philip Bruce Goff (born 22 June 1953), generally known as Phil Goff, is the current Minister of Defence of New Zealand. ... Terrorist redirects here. ... The Prime Minister of New Zealand is most senior officer in the Government of New Zealand. ... For other persons named Helen Clark, see Helen Clark (disambiguation). ...

New Zealand's Foreign Minister Winston Peters (who replaced Goff in late 2005) flew into Fiji on 8 February 2006 for three days of talks with Fijian government officials. He met Prime Minister Qarase, Finance Minister Ratu Jone Kubuabola, and Military Commander Commodore Frank Bainimarama on the first day of his visit; meetings with Foreign Minister Tavola and House of Representatives Speaker Ratu Epeli Nailatikau were held later. The meeting with Bainimarama attracted some media attention; Bainimarama said that the meeting had been approved by Prime Minister Qarase and that there was nothing underhand about it. Winston Raymond Peters (born April 11, 1945) is a New Zealand politician and the current Minister of Foreign Affairs, outside cabinet. ... February 8 is the 39th day of the year in the Gregorian calendar. ... For the Manfred Mann album, see 2006 (album). ... Ratu is a title used by Fijians of chiefly rank. ... Ratu Jone Kubuabola Ratu Jone Yavala Kubuabola is Fijis Minister for Finance, a position he has held since 2000. ... Commodore is a military rank used in some navies for officers whose position exceeds that of a Captain, but is less than that of a Flag Officer. ... Commodore Voreqe Bainimarama Commodore Josaia Voreqe Bainimarama MSD, OStJ, Fijian Navy, popularly known as Frank Bainimarama, (born 27 April 1954) is the Commander of the Fijian Military Forces. ... Overview The House of Representatives is the lower chamber of Fijis Parliament. ... The Speaker is the presiding officer of the Fijian House of Representatives. ... Ratu is a title used by Fijians of chiefly rank. ... Ratu Epeli Nailatikau, Speaker of the House of Representatives Brigadier-General Ratu Epeli Nailatikau, LVO, OBE, MSD, OStJ, (born 1941) (often referred to as Na Turaga Mai Naisogolaca) is a Fijian politician. ...

The talks are to cover such matters as the Pacific Plan and a cost-sharing agreement for a citizen education project, promoted by the United Nations Development Programme. The United Nations Development Programe (UNDP), the United Nations global development network, is the largest multilateral source of development assistance in the world. ...

The New Zealand Minister of Foreign Affairs Winston Peters has described the 2006 coup as a "creeping siege on democratic institutions".^[4] New Zealand Prime Minister Helen Clark said that the Fijian constitution only allowed the President to request the dissolving of Parliament if the Prime Minister no longer had the confidence of the Parliament and that this was clearly not the case.^[5] The New Zealand Government has also stated those taking part in the coup will be banned from entry to New Zealand, and that military ties, aid and sporting contacts will be cut. Helen Clark has said in the NZ Herald that she would consider sanctions against Fiji.^[6] The Fijian coup dÃ©tat of December 2006 occurred as a continuation of the pressure which had been building since the military unrest of the 2000 Fijian coup dÃ©tat and 2005-2006 Fijian political crisis. ... For other persons named Helen Clark, see Helen Clark (disambiguation). ...

Concern over reduced British presence

Foreign Minister Tavola expressed concern on 11 July about moves by the British government to reduce its presence in the Pacific region. "We were not happy with that and on occasions, informed them of the folly of their decision to downsize their presence in the Pacific," Tavola said. Britain has already closed its consulate in Kiribati and plans to close its missions in Tonga this year and Vanuatu next year. Britain has also withdrawn from the Secretariat of the Pacific Community, a regional organization of which it was a founding member and a major donor. July 11 is the 192nd day (193rd in leap years) of the year in the Gregorian calendar, with 173 days remaining. ... A diplomatic mission is a group of people from one nation state present in another nation state to represent the sending state in the receiving State. ... 2005 (MMV) was a common year starting on Saturday of the Gregorian calendar. ... For the Manfred Mann album, see 2006 (album). ... Flag of the Secretariat of the Pacific Community The Secretariat of the Pacific Community or SPC is a regional intergovernmental organisation whose membership includes both nations and territories. ...

Tavola said the British withdrawal could create a power vacuum which others could exploit. A new Cold War era could come to the Pacific region, he said, with rivalries between China and Taiwan, as well as between China and Japan. For other uses, see Cold War (disambiguation). ...

Trade war with Vanuatu

On 11 March 2005, Vanuatu imposed a ban in biscuit imports, ostensibly to protect its own biscuit manufacturing industry, giving a monopoly on the business to the Espiritu Santo-based Wong Sze Sing store. The ban was the second in a year. Bread and breakfast cereals produced by Flour Mills of Fiji (FMF) were the worst-hit; the company claimed to be losing F$2 million annually. March 11 is the 70th day of the year in the Gregorian calendar (71st in leap years). ... 2005 (MMV) was a common year starting on Saturday of the Gregorian calendar. ... Espiritu Santo (Spanish: Holy Ghost) is is the largest island in the nation of Vanuatu. ... ISO 4217 Code FJD User(s) Fiji Inflation 1. ...

Fiji retaliated on 13 June with a threat to impose a total commercial embargo on Vanuatu. Major income-earners for Vanuatu targeted by the Fijian government include Vanuatu kava, valued at almost US$3.2 million, and Air Vanuatu flights (US$8 million). June 13 is the 164th day of the year in the Gregorian calendar (165th in leap years), with 201 days remaining. ... Binomial name Piper methysticum G.Forst. ... ISO 4217 Code USD User(s) the United States, the British Indian Ocean Territory,[1] the British Virgin Islands, Cambodia, East Timor, Ecuador, El Salvador, the Marshall Islands, Micronesia, Palau, Panama, Turks and Caicos Islands, and the insular areas of the United States Inflation 2. ... Air Vanuatu is an airline based at Bauerfield International Airport in Port Vila, Vanuatu. ... ISO 4217 Code USD User(s) the United States, the British Indian Ocean Territory,[1] the British Virgin Islands, Cambodia, East Timor, Ecuador, El Salvador, the Marshall Islands, Micronesia, Palau, Panama, Turks and Caicos Islands, and the insular areas of the United States Inflation 2. ...

On 29 June, Foreign Minister Tavola said that Fiji was "running out of patience" and that he was writing to the government of Vanuatu in what he called a "final gesture of friendship." June 29 is the 180th day of the year (181st in leap years) in the Gregorian calendar, with 185 days remaining. ...

On 27 July, Vanuatu's Trade Minister James Bule signed an order lifting the ban, effective from 22 July. No reason was given for the change of policy, but the Fiji Live news service reported that the decision averted a lawsuit from FMF and the threatened kava ban. July 27 is the 208th day (209th in leap years) of the year in the Gregorian Calendar, with 157 days remaining. ... July 22 is the 203rd day (204th in leap years) of the year in the Gregorian Calendar, with 162 days remaining. ... Fiji Live is an online newspaper and business and cultural directory in Fiji. ...

Fiji's Foreign Affairs chief executive officer, Isikeli Mataitoga, said that Fiji's policy of pursuing diplomatic channels in dealing with such disputes had been vindicated. "Whilst I agree that it can take a bit of time to see it through carefully, it nevertheless, demonstrates to our regional friends that we are principled in our approach to international relations and diplomacy," Mataitoga said.

There was another twist on 28 July, however, when FMF Chairman Hari Punja called the lifting of the ban a fabrication. He said that in place of the ban, the Vanuatu government had introduced a restrictive new quota system for imports which would make it "impossible" to export to Vanuatu. He called on the Fijian government to continue to pressure its Vanuatu counterparts. July 28 is the 209th day (210th in leap years) of the year in the Gregorian calendar, with 156 days remaining. ... Hari Punja Hari Punja (born 1937) is a Fijian business tycoon. ...

Foreign Minister Tavola denounced the latest move of the Vanuatu government on 3 August, saying that it breached an agreement. On 9 August, he announced that the government had decided to go ahead with its threatened embargo against the importing of Vanuatu kava. On 16 August the Cabinet finalized the decision, banning all imports of Vanuatu kava for six months, after which the ban would be reviewed. On 18 August, Fiji Islands Revenue and Customs Authority chief executive Tevita Banuve said that importers would be given two weeks to clear their kava stock from the wharf. A special license would be granted only to clear the stock, he said. It would not be usable for importing more kava. August 3 is the 215th day of the year in the Gregorian Calendar (216th in leap years), with 150 days remaining. ... August 9 is the 221st day of the year in the Gregorian Calendar (222nd in leap years), with 144 days remaining. ... August 16 is the 228th day of the year (229th in leap years) in the Gregorian calendar. ... Fiji has the Westminster system - executive authority is vested nominally in a President, but exercised in practice by a Cabinet of Ministers, presided over by the Prime Minister. ... August 18 is the 230th day of the year (231st in leap years) in the Gregorian calendar. ...

On 27 August, Tavola announced that following negotiations at the Melanesian Spearhead Group meeting in Papua New Guinea, he expected the Vanuatu government to lift the biscuit ban soon. If they did so, he said he would ask the Cabinet to lift the embargo against Vanuatu kava. August 27 is the 239th day of the year in the Gregorian calendar (240th in leap years), with 126 days remaining. ... The Melanesian Spearhead Group (MSG) Preferential Trade Agreement is a trade treaty governing the four melanesian states of Vanuatu, Papua New Guinea, the Solomon Islands and recently, Fiji. ... Fiji has the Westminster system - executive authority is vested nominally in a President, but exercised in practice by a Cabinet of Ministers, presided over by the Prime Minister. ...

The Fiji Village news service reported on 11 October that Vanuatu's Trade Minister, James Bule, would visit Fiji on 25 October. The purpose of the visit would be to deliver his government's decision to lift the ban on Fijian biscuits, in return for Fiji lifting its ban on Vanuatu kava. October 11 is the 284th day of the year (285th in leap years) in the Gregorian calendar. ... October 25 is the 298th day of the year (299th in leap years) in the Gregorian calendar. ...

In return for Vanuatu's lifting of the biscuit ban on 25 October, the Fijian government announced on 7 December that it was lifting its kava ban for the sake of freer trade among the members of the Melanesian Spearhead Group (MSG). October 25 is the 298th day of the year (299th in leap years) in the Gregorian calendar. ... December 7 is the 341st day (342nd in leap years) of the year in the Gregorian calendar. ... The Melanesian Spearhead Group (MSG) Preferential Trade Agreement is a trade treaty governing the four melanesian states of Vanuatu, Papua New Guinea, the Solomon Islands and recently, Fiji. ...

On 22 December 2005, Vanuatu's Finance Minister Willie Rarua formally apologized to Fiji's Acting Foreign Minister, Pita Nacuva, for having imposed the ban. December 22 is the 356th day of the year (357th in leap years) in the Gregorian calendar. ... 2005 (MMV) was a common year starting on Saturday of the Gregorian calendar. ... The Minister for Foreign Affairs (commonly known as the Foreign Minister) is Fijis Cabinet Minister responsible for international relations and diplomacy. ... Hon. ...

Relations with India

Fiji's relationship with India is often seen by observers against the backdrop of the sometimes tense relations between its indigenous people and the 38 percent of the population who are of Indian descent. A major diplomatic event for Fiji in 2005 occurred from 8 to 15 October, when Prime Minister Laisenia Qarase and Foreign Minister Kaliopate Tavola made an official visit to India. Fijis relationship with India is often seen by observers against the backdrop of the sometimes tense relations between its indigenous people and the 38 percent of the population who are of Indian descent. ... Indigenous Fijians are the major indigenous people of the Fiji Islands. ... Indo-Fijians are people born in Fiji, but are ethnically Indian. ... October 8 is the 281st day of the year (282nd in leap years). ... October 15 is the 288th day of the year (289th in leap years). ... Fiji received its independence in 1970. ... Laisenia Qarase (born February 4, 1941) was Prime Minister of Fiji from 2000 to 2006. ... The Minister for Foreign Affairs (commonly known as the Foreign Minister) is Fijis Cabinet Minister responsible for international relations and diplomacy. ... Kaliopate Tavola Kaliopate Tavola is a Fijian economist, diplomat, and politician, who has been his countrys Minister for Foreign Affairs since 2000. ...

Relations with Tonga

It was reported on 2 November 2005 that a territorial dispute was looming between Fiji and Tonga over a reef lying to the south of both countries. The people of Ono-i-Lau in the Lau Islands archipelago claim that Minerva Reef is part of their traditional fishing ground. Attorney General Qoriniasi Bale told the Lau Provincial Council that the government had a team of experts preparing a case to be taken to the United Nations International Seabed Authority, which is based in Jamaica. The reef has also been claimed by Tonga since 1972, and Tonga's Surveyor General, Tevita Malolo, told Radio New Zealand that Fiji had never contested Tonga's claim until now. November 2 is the 306th day of the year (307th in leap years) in the Gregorian calendar, with 59 days remaining. ... 2005 (MMV) was a common year starting on Saturday of the Gregorian calendar. ... Ono-i-Lau is a volcanic and coral island in Fijis Lau archipelago. ... The Lau Islands (also called the Lau Group, the Eastern Group, the Eastern Archipelago) of Fiji are situated in the southern Pacific Ocean, just east of the Koro Sea. ... Fijis chief governmental legal officer is the Attorney General. ... Qoriniasi Bale, Attorney-General of Fiji Qoriniasi Babitu Bale is a lawyer and political leader, who has served twice as Fijis Minister for Justice and Attorney-General, most recently from 2001 to 2006, when he was deposed in the military coup of 5 December. ... The Lau Islands (also called the Lau Group, the Eastern Group, the Eastern Archipelago) of Fiji are situated in the southern Pacific Ocean, just east of the Koro Sea. ... Fiji is divided administratively into four divisions, which are further subdivided into fourteen provinces. ... The Surveyor General is an official responsible for government surveying in a specific country or territory. ... Radio New Zealand Limited is New Zealands public service radio broadcaster. ...

Relations with Papua New Guinea

Relations between Fiji and Papua New Guinea became strained in November 2005, in the wake of revelations that a number of Fijian citizens, possibly mercenaries, had entered Papua New Guinea illegally and were involved in arming and training a separatist militia on the island of Bougainville. Relationships between Fiji and Papua New Guinea became strained in November 2005 in the wake of revelations that 9 Fijian mercenaries had entered Papua New Guinea illegally and were arming and training a private militia on the island of Bougainville. ... The Politics series Politics Portal This box: Separatism is a term usually applied to describe the attitudes or motivations of those seeking independence or separation of their land or region from the country that governs them. ... Lexington Minuteman representing militia minuteman John Parker Militia is the activity of one or more citizens organized to provide defense or paramilitary service, or those engaged in such activity. ... Bougainville and neighbouring islands Bougainville is part of Papua New Guinea and is the largest island of the Solomon Islands group. ...

On a separate matter, PNG Trade and Industry Minister Paul Tiensten was quoted in Fiji Village on 21 February 2006 as saying that sanctions against Fiji were being considered, following a Fijian refusal of a PNG kava shipment and an earlier rejection of corned beef shipped from PNG. The Fiji Village is an online news service in Fiji. ... February 21 is the 52nd day of the year in the Gregorian Calendar. ... For the Manfred Mann album, see 2006 (album). ... Binomial name Piper methysticum G.Forst. ... Corned beef is a cut of beef (usually brisket, but sometimes round) cured or pickled in a seasoned brine. ...

Relations with the European Union

The European Union announced on 3 November 2005 that it would increase its assistance to Fijian schools from 2006 onwards. The assistance would cover infrastructure and building, as well as supplying schools with running water and telephone services. November 3 is the 307th day of the year (308th in leap years) in the Gregorian calendar, with 58 days remaining. ... 2005 (MMV) was a common year starting on Saturday of the Gregorian calendar. ...

Relations with South Africa

Foreign Minister Kaliopate Tavola announced on 15 February 2006 that South Africa would be the first African country to establish a diplomatic mission in Fiji. Diplomatic relations would open up new opportunities for trade and investment, Tavola said. On 27 February, it was announced that South Africa would be opening a High Commission in Fiji. Kaliopate Tavola Kaliopate Tavola is a Fijian economist, diplomat, and politician, who has been his countrys Minister for Foreign Affairs since 2000. ... February 15 is the 46th day of the year in the Gregorian Calendar. ... For the Manfred Mann album, see 2006 (album). ... A world map showing the continent of Africa Africa is the worlds second-largest and second most-populous continent, after Asia. ... February 27 is the 58th day of the year in the Gregorian Calendar. ... A High Commissioner is a person serving in a special executive capacity. ...

Relations with Brazil

Fiji Live reported on 23 February 2006 that Fiji's United Nations Ambassador Isikia Savua and his Brazilian counterpart Ronaldo Mota Sardenberg had recently signed a communiqué to establish diplomatic relations. Savua expressed the hope that Fiji's bio-fuels industry could benefit from Brazilian technology. Fiji Live is an online newspaper and business and cultural directory in Fiji. ... February 23 is the 54th day of the year in the Gregorian calendar. ... For the Manfred Mann album, see 2006 (album). ... The foundation of the U.N. The United Nations (UN) is an international organization whose stated aims are to facilitate co-operation in international law, international security, economic development, social progress and human rights issues. ... An ambassador, rarely embassador, is a diplomatic official accredited to a foreign sovereign or government, or to an international organization, to serve as the official representative of his or her own country. ... Isikia Savua Isikia Rabici Savua is a senior Fijian diplomat, who has previously had a distinguished career in the Military and police forces before taking up his present post as Ambassador and Permanent Representative to the United Nations on 4 March 2003. ... Ambassador Ronaldo Mota Sardenberg speaks before the United Nations General Assembly Ronaldo Mota Sardenberg, born on October 8, 1940 in ItÃº in the state of SÃ£o Paulo, is the Permanent Representative of Brazil to the United Nations. ...

Fijian missions abroad

Fiji maintains direct diplomatic or consular relations with countries with historical, cultural, or trading ties to Fiji; Ambassadors stationed in such countries are often accredited to neighbouring countries. Fiji maintains embassies in Belgium (taking care of Fiji's relations with the entire European Union), China, Japan, and the United States; and High Commissions in Australia, India, Malaysia, New Zealand, Papua New Guinea, and New Zealand (in keeping with the Commonwealth practice of calling missions in fellow-commonwealth countries High Commissions rather than Embassies). Fiji also has a Permanent Mission to the United Nations. Fiji maintains direct diplomatic or consular relations with countries with historical, culrural, or trading ties to Fiji; Ambassadors stationed in such countries are often accredited to neighbouring countries. ... Consul (abbrev. ... A High Commissioner is a person serving in a special executive capacity. ... The Commonwealth of Nations (CN), usually known as The Commonwealth, is a voluntary association of 53 independent sovereign states all of which are former colonies of the United Kingdom, except for Mozambique and the United Kingdom itself. ... The foundation of the U.N. The United Nations (UN) is an international organization whose stated aims are to facilitate co-operation in international law, international security, economic development, social progress and human rights issues. ...

Foreign reaction to Fijian legislation

Australia and New Zealand have both expressed concern over legislation currently before the Fijian Parliament (as of June 2005), which proposes to establish a Reconciliation and Unity Commission, with the power (subject to presidential approval) to compensate victims and pardon persons convicted of crimes related to the coup d'état which deposed the elected government in 2000. The controversial Reconciliation, Tolerance, and Unity Bill being promoted by the Fijian government throughout 2005 has generated enormous debate, both locally and internationally. ... Fijis Parliament is bicameral. ... The Reconciliation and Unity Commission is a proposed government body to be set up if the Reconciliation, Tolerance, and Unity Bill, which was introduced into the Fijian Parliament on May 4, 2005, is passed. ... Fiji became a republic in 1987, when Queen Elizabeth II of the United Kingdom formally abdicated as Queen of Fiji, following two military coups led by Lieutenant Colonel Sitiveni Rabuka. ... The Fiji coup of 2000 was a complicated affair involving a civilian putsch by hardline Fijian nationalists against the elected government of Prime Minister Mahendra Chaudhry on 19 May 2000, the attempt by President Ratu Sir Kamisese Mara to assert executive authority on 27 May, and his own resignation, possibly...

On 30 August 2005, Commonwealth Secretary-General Don McKinnon called on the Fijian government to ensure that the legislation reflected the views of its citizens. He emphasized, however, that the Commonwealth did not have a position on the bill. August 30 is the 242nd day of the year in the Gregorian Calendar (243rd in leap years), with 123 days remaining. ... 2005 (MMV) was a common year starting on Saturday of the Gregorian calendar. ... The Commonwealth of Nations (CN), usually known as The Commonwealth, is a voluntary association of 53 independent sovereign states all of which are former colonies of the United Kingdom, except for Mozambique and the United Kingdom itself. ... Donald Charles McKinnon (born February 27, 1939) is a former Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs of New Zealand. ...

Fiji and international organizations

Fiji plays an active role in numerous international bodies. The South Pacific Forum was largely the brainchild of Ratu Sir Kamisese Mara, Fiji's first Prime Minister. The country has been an outspoken participant many international forums. The Pacific Islands Forum is an inter-governmental consultative process which aims to enhance cooperation between the countries of the Pacific Ocean and represent their interests. ... The Right Honourable Ratu Sir Kamisese Mara GCMG KBE CF, (May 6, 1920 â€“ April 18, 2004) is considered the founding father of the modern nation of Fiji. ...

Commonwealth of Nations

Fiji has been a member of the Commonwealth of Nations since it gained its independence in 1970. It was not a member of the Commonwealth between 1987 and 1997 as a result of a republican coup d'etat, and was suspended just 3 years after rejoining between 2000 to 2001 after a military coup, and is currently suspended after the 2006 coup. The Commonwealth of Nations (CN), usually known as The Commonwealth, is a voluntary association of 53 independent sovereign states all of which are former colonies of the United Kingdom, except for Mozambique and the United Kingdom itself. ...

Oceania Customs Organisation

On 1 September 2005, it was announced that the Oceania Customs Organization would relocate to Fiji in 2006. Though located in Fiji, it would be totally independent of the Fijian government and of the Fiji Islands Revenue and Customs Authority (FIRCA), Finance Minister Ratu Jone Kubuabola said, and for the first three years of its presence in Fiji, its secretariat would be financed by the New Zealand government. September 1 is the 244th day of the year (245th in leap years) in the Gregorian calendar. ... 2005 (MMV) was a common year starting on Saturday of the Gregorian calendar. ... Ratu Jone Kubuabola Ratu Jone Yavala Kubuabola is Fijis Minister for Finance, a position he has held since 2000. ...

World Trade Organization

Speaking at the 18th Fiji-Australia Business Forum in Sydney on 17 October 2005, Prime Minister Qarase strongly criticized the World Trade Organization, saying that its policies were unfair to small countries like Fiji. "WTO is trying to impose equality of trade in an unequal world," he said, "but for developing countries like Fiji there is no level playing field, just a slippery slope." It would be a long time before Fiji's economy could compete on equal terms with that of more developed nations, he considered. The Sydney Opera House on Sydney Harbour Sydney (pronounced ) is the most populous city in Australia, with a metropolitan area population of over 4. ... October 17 is the 290th day of the year (291st in leap years) in the Gregorian calendar. ... 2005 (MMV) was a common year starting on Saturday of the Gregorian calendar. ... This article or section does not adequately cite its references or sources. ...

International Labour Organization

On 10 January 2006, the Fijian government criticized the International Labour Organization for what it said was the organization's unfair treatment of the Fiji Islands Congress of Trade Unions (FICTU). Labour Minister Kenneth Zinck said the government had received a complaint from FICTU about the ILO's discrimination against it in favour of the rival Fiji Trades Union Congress. January 10 is the 10th day of the year in the Gregorian calendar. ... For the Manfred Mann album, see 2006 (album). ... The International Labour Organization (ILO) is a specialized agency of the United Nations to deal with labour issues. ... Kenneth Zinck Kenneth Vincent Zinck is a Fijian politician, who currently serves as Minister for Labour, Industrial Relations and Productivity. ... The Fiji Trades Union Congress (FTUC) is a trade union organization in Fiji. ...

Diplomatic initiatives

Speaking at the 6th Session of the Permanent Forum on Indigenous Issues in New York City on 23 May 2005, Isikia Savua, Fiji's Permanent Representative (Ambassador) to the United Nations, called for equal recognition of individual and collective rights in national and international policies. He said that Fiji had embodied both concepts in its Constitution, through such provisions as communal voting (giving each elector to vote for two members of the House of Representatives, one from his or her own ethnic group, and the other from any ethnic group). New York, NY redirects here. ... May 23 is the 143rd day of the year in the Gregorian calendar (144th in leap years). ... 2005 (MMV) was a common year starting on Saturday of the Gregorian calendar. ... Isikia Savua Isikia Rabici Savua is a senior Fijian diplomat, who has previously had a distinguished career in the Military and police forces before taking up his present post as Ambassador and Permanent Representative to the United Nations on 4 March 2003. ... The foundation of the U.N. The United Nations (UN) is an international organization whose stated aims are to facilitate co-operation in international law, international security, economic development, social progress and human rights issues. ... Communal constituencies have been the most durable feature of the Fijian electoral system. ... Overview The House of Representatives is the lower chamber of Fijis Parliament. ...

On 1 September 2005, Prime Minister Qarase announced his intention to ask his Australian counterpart, John Howard, for more favourable market access for Pacific Island products. He called on Australia and New Zealand to revise the rules of origin under the SPARTECA trade agreement, and reduce the figure from 50 percent to 35 percent, thereby allowing Fiji to export a higher percentage of garments made elsewhere to Australian and New Zealand markets. September 1 is the 244th day of the year (245th in leap years) in the Gregorian calendar. ... 2005 (MMV) was a common year starting on Saturday of the Gregorian calendar. ... John Winston Howard (born 26 July 1939), Australian politician, is the Prime Minister of Australia. ... The South Pacific Regional Trade and Economic Cooperation Agreement (SPARTECA) was signed in 1981 between Australia, New Zealand and countries of the South Pacific Forum. ...

On 28 October 2005, Prime Minister Qarase criticized Australia and New Zealand for refusing to grant temporary work permits to Pacific Islanders. He said the two countries were acting unfairly in assuming that such permits would encourage illegal immigration. The Prime Minister claimed that in the absence of such work permits, Pacific Islanders visiting Australia and New Zealand often undertook illegal employment anyway. October 28 is the 301st day of the year (302nd in leap years) in the Gregorian calendar, with 64 days remaining. ... 2005 (MMV) was a common year starting on Saturday of the Gregorian calendar. ...

References

Categories: Wikipedia articles in need of updating | Foreign relations of Fiji Radio New Zealand Limited is New Zealands public service radio broadcaster. ... December 5 is the 339th day (340th in leap years) of the year in the Gregorian calendar. ... For the Manfred Mann album, see 2006 (album). ... December 5 is the 339th day (340th in leap years) of the year in the Gregorian calendar. ... For the Manfred Mann album, see 2006 (album). ... Radio New Zealand Limited is New Zealands public service radio broadcaster. ... December 5 is the 339th day (340th in leap years) of the year in the Gregorian calendar. ... For the Manfred Mann album, see 2006 (album). ... December 6 is the 340th day (341st on leap years) of the year in the Gregorian calendar. ... For the Manfred Mann album, see 2006 (album). ...

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