Fiji PM: Australia, New Zealand Have Undue Influence in Pacific Forum

Fijian Prime Minister Frank Bainimarama said Australia and New Zealand exercised “undue influence” in the Pacific Islands Forum, adding that he did “not see Fiji’s interests reflected in the stance being taken by Australia and New Zealand”. The prime minister said he would not attend future meetings until the issue is addressed. He singled out Australia in particular for “dragging its feet” in the international campaign to cut carbon emissions.

“As head of government, I will not participate in any forum leader’s meeting until the issue of the undue influence of Australia and New Zealand and our divergence of views is addressed. Australia and New Zealand are not island nations. And we believe that they are more development partners such as the European Union, China, India, South Korea, Indonesia and the rest”, Bainimarama said.

The full transcript of the speech is published here. Credit: YouTube/FijianGovernment