Leaders to consider Chairing arrangements for the Forum
PRESS STATEMENT
15 December 2006 FORUM LEADERS TO CONSIDER ALTERNATIVE CHAIRING ARRANGEMENTS FOR THE FORUM The Secretary General of the Pacific Islands Forum, Greg Urwin, has advised that the position of Fiji in the Forum is now under consideration. The Secretary General has also expressed his deep regret over developments in Fiji over the past two weeks. “The impacts of the RFMF-led removal of the democratically elected Government are already beginning to have serious consequences not only for the economy and the welfare of the people of Fiji but also the international reputation of Fiji and the region as a whole. The crisis in Fiji must be resolved through negotiation, within the Constitution and with respect for the rule of law,” he said. “As the actions of the Republic of Fiji Military Forces now prevent Prime Minister Qarase from exercising his leadership of the Fiji Government, and have also made it impossible as a matter of practicality for him to fulfil his duties as Forum Chair at the present time, Forum Leaders are considering an alternative Chairing arrangement.” Mr Urwin emphasised that Forum members had expressed their collective commitment to upholding democratic processes and institutions in Forum member countries as enshrined in the Biketawa Declaration. “Forum members wish to assist Fiji move swiftly and peacefully toward the restoration of democratic government, within the boundaries of Fiji’s constitution and the rule of law. “The good offices of the Forum are available to help further the dialogue between the Government and RFMF toward a peaceful resolution of the situation.” “The Forum is consulting with the RFMF-installed regime and other relevant stakeholders in Fiji to ascertain their willingness to speak with a Forum Eminent Persons’ Group to be convened as soon as possible, as mandated by Forum Foreign Ministers on 1 December,” the Secretary General said. (Ends) |
2006