PM Clarifies Fiji's Stand On Tibet

OFFICE OF THE PRIME MINISTER

MEDIA STATEMENT

(Friday , 28th March 2008, No:060 /PMO)

PM Clarifies Fiji's Stand On Tibet

There is nothing sinister or inappropriate about the message which Fiji has sent to Beijing pertaining to demonstrations and violence perpetrated by protestors in Lhasa, Tibet. In clarifying Fiji's stand, Prime Minister, Commodore Voreqe Bainimarama has called on the commentators and media not to distort the facts and mislead the people.

'The Interim Government's stand on the Tibet issue is very clear and consistent. Our stand is a principled one within the parameters of law with the need to maintain peace and harmony.'

'We have supported People's Republic of China's stand on resolving the issue peacefully within the law.

Commodore Bainimarama said 'People's Republic of China has been a long standing friend of Fiji and we value China's contribution in Fiji's economy'

Fiji has always maintained the stand that Tibet is an internal matter for the People's Republic of China to deal with. This is similar to China's stand on Fiji situation

The fact that the protestors are trying to associate their grievances if any, to a major international event such as the Beijing Olympics, further warrants appropriate action being taken by the Government of the People's Republic of China to maintain peace and stability.

PM Bainimarama said the Fiji will always support efforts to ensure that there is peace and harmony not only in China but throughout the world.

ENDS

© Scoop Media