Rather than fulfilling a leadership role, Fiji has become increasingly isolated from the international community and its Pacific neighbours.

These are the words of US Ambassador Steve McGann who said two years on after the military overthrew a multi-party government duly elected by the people of Fiji in the May 2006 general election, foreign assistance to vital sectors is in doubt and the economic outlook remains uncertain.

McGann said while the US government has repeatedly condemned the military takeover and called for an early return to democracy, the interim government has had sufficient time to announce an election date and make appropriate preparations.

He said the US stands with the Pacific Islands Forum and other international partners calling for a timely return to democracy in Fiji in 2009.