Brussels, 15/04/2009 (Agence Europe) - The European Commission has condemned the latest developments in the political crisis in Fiji which, on 11 April, saw the head of the armed forces, who led the 2006 putsch, re-appointed Prime Minister. This backward step has compromised the gradual resumption of cooperation between the EU and Fiji, the Commission says, and it calls on the transitional government to reconsider this decision and honour the commitments it made.
In a press release published on Wednesday 15 April, European development Commissioner Louis Michel says that the interim government in Fiji had reached agreement with the EU on a plan to restore political order and democracy and which, at the same time, would have allowed the EU to provide substantial financial support to rescue the sugar sector and help boost the economy. Michel expresses deep regret and disappointment particularly about the repeal of the constitution, the sacking of judges, the delay until 2014 in holding general elections and the curtailment of freedom of speech. “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,” the commissioner says. (A.N./transl.rt)