“Peace must first be established within Fiji before we extend it to the Pacific,” stated Opposition Leader Inia Seruiratu in response to Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka’s parliamentary address on the newly unveiled Foreign Policy White Paper.
Seruiratu highlighted the impact of Fiji’s past coups on trade, urging caution to the Prime Minister about how traditional trading partners viewed the nation following events in 1987 and 2000, which forced Fiji to seek trading opportunities in the northern regions.
“You understand well the treatment we received during our internal issues,” he said.
He emphasized the significance of achieving peace in Fiji, asserting, “We cannot offer what we do not possess. It’s vital to resolve our internal challenges. Governance issues need addressing, and I hope the Prime Minister takes responsibility for what has been highlighted in the papers, as this is essential for fostering an Ocean of Peace and ensuring long-term regional security without external interference.”
Seruiratu pointed out that the document suggests there should be no clear distinction between bilateral and multilateral diplomacy; however, he noted that geography, history, and values shape the nature and priorities of these relationships.
“Our connections with fellow members of the Pacific Islands Forum differ significantly from those with countries outside the Pacific region,” he added.