Statement on Fiji from European Commissioner
Issue Date: 16 April 2009
Statement by Commissioner Louis
Michel on situation in Fiji
Louis Michel, the European
Commissioner for Development Cooperation and Humanitarian
Aid, expressed deep regret and disappointment regarding
recent regressive developments in Fiji; in particular the
abrogation of the Constitution, the sacking of all judges,
the delay of general elections until 2014 and the
curtailment of freedom of speech.
The Commissioner was particularly disappointed, since the interim Government had agreed with the European Union on a plan which would have restored political order and democracy to Fiji and at the same time would have allowed the EU to provide substantial financial support to rescue the sugar sector and help restore the economy.
Commissioner Michel called on the interim Government to reconsider these decisions and to honour its commitments to the international community and ultimately the people of Fiji.
Commissioner Michel said: "These developments are unacceptable for the international community. Commitments must be respected. An early and inclusive domestic political process leading to a return to constitutional order and democracy in Fiji will allow us to provide assistance to Fiji, at a time when global economic prospects are becoming increasingly difficult."
ENDS