1 March 2001

New Zealand should foster new Fiji Government of National Unity

The Green Party has welcomed today's court decision upholding the 1997 Fiji constitution.

"New Zealand should push for a new broad-based Fiji government, based on this multi-racial constitution," said Green Party Foreign Affairs spokesperson Keith Locke.

"There is now a political window to begin the healing process in Fiji.

"A new constitutional government could include all political forces, with the aim of rebuilding the country and preparing the way for new elections," he said.

"We should tell the interim government and military leaders that if they abide by the court decision, and assist the return of constitutional rule, they will have the full support of New Zealand.

"But any obstruction of the will of the court will lead to continuing sanctions and the isolation of Fiji in the world community," said Mr Locke.

Keith Locke MP: 04 470 6710, 025 528 353 Jonathan Hill (press secretary): 021 440 090

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