The Australian Government is supporting New Zealand’s move to improve diplomatic relations with Fiji.
Radio New Zealand reports that Australia's Foreign Minister Stephen Smith said it’s a sensible move, but does not take pressure off the Fiji government for a return to democracy.
Smith said disagreements with a particular country is not a reason not to have diplomatic relations.
The move has also been welcomed by the Fiji community in New Zealand. Members of Auckland’s Fiji community say the move is a small but positive move in improving relations.
A Community leader in Auckland, Bulou Ligalevu said while moving Fiji to democracy is important, Fiji national in New Zealand want travel sanctions lifted as soon as possible.
Meanwhile, New Zealand Foreign Minister, Murray McCulley said dialogue will definitely continue with Fiji following successful talks with the Fiji Foreign Minister, Ratu Inoke Kubuabola over the weekend.
McCulley said NZ is of the point of view that diplomatic relations between the two countries should continue.
Further talks are expected between the governments of Fiji and New Zealand over the next few months to restore full diplomatic relations between the two countries.
McCully said the two governments have agreed to appoint diplomats to their embassies in Wellington and Suva after successful talks with Ratu Inoke Kubuabola in Nadi at the weekend.
The two foreign Ministers have agreed to keep in close contact and to meet as necessary in future as the New Zealand Government is making efforts to improve its diplomatic relations with Fiji.
The announcement came two months after Fiji expelled New Zealand's top diplomat Todd Clever from the country.
McCully said while sanctions on Fiji remain in place, the announcement does signal a determination to improve the relationship.
Aust govt supports NZ diplomatic move
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