Resolve Fiji crisis, C'wealth urged

By Our Special Correspondent

NEW DELHI, MARCH. 7. India and New Zealand today advocated a leading role for the Commonwealth in resolving the political crisis in Fiji.

The visiting New Zealand Foreign Minister, Mr. Phil Goff, and his Indian counterpart, Mr. Jaswant Singh, agreed during discussions that the Commonwealth should play a leading role in the restoration of democracy in Fiji.

According to a senior official of the Ministry of External Affairs, Mr. Singh said any formulation to restore political normality in Fiji should ensure the long-term security of Indian- origin Fijians.

Both sides agreed that any new political arrangement in Fiji should cause the least amount of destabilisation. According to Mr. Goff, early elections in Fiji may not be in the country's best interests.

Instead, he preferred a government of national unity to take over in Suva. Besides Fiji, the recent developments in Indonesia, Philippines and Myanmar were discussed.

On the economic side, both leaders exchanged views on ways to enhance tie ups in the agriculture sector, taking advantage of the opportunities available under the guidelines of the World Trade Organisation.

Mr. Goff, during his stay, also visited earthquake-hit Gujarat and offered technical assistance for constructing quake-resistant buildings, developed by New Zealand.

He expressed interest in India's Information Technology, tourism and education sectors.

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Section  : National
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