The Australian High Commissioner has today stated that the trading relationship between Fiji and Australia continues to be a strong one, reflecting the strong linkages across the board between the two countries.

While opening the Fiji Economy Update 2009 discussions at USP today, High Commissioner James Batley said Fiji continues to benefit from privileged access to the Australian market under international trade agreements like SPARTECA and SPARTECA - TCF.

Batley stresses that contrary to what people might read in some publications, economic sanctions are not being contemplated.

He said Australia's position on the PACER Plus trade negotiations is that it will welcome Fiji back as a full participant, but not until concrete steps are taken to return Fiji to democracy and the rule of law.

Batley said subject to the decisions taken by the Forum Leaders in Cairns next week, Australia remains open to considering options for keeping Fiji informed on PACER Plus developments.
   
While opening the Australian National University's Fiji Economy Update discussions at the University of the South Pacific in Suva today, Batley said at a time when freedom of speech is heavily restricted, it is imperative that the university fulfills its traditional role of providing a space for the free and respectful exchange of ideas and opinions, free from coercion or intimidation.


The discussions at USP end this hour.