Prime Minister Commodore Voreqe Bainimarama addressed the 65th Session of the United Nations General Assembly early this morning in New York and highlighted the changes in Fiji's foreign policies over the past few months.

Addressing the world leaders, Commodore Bainimarama said Fiji's new foreign policy direction stems from the philosophical basis that while determining our own destinies as sovereign states, we must work in collaboration with all member states with the aim of sustainable world peace, substantive justice, dignity and respect for all.

However, Bainimarama reiterated that we cannot achieve these objectives, nor have actual implementation of these noble principles, if we simply fall into predetermined political spheres of influence or have predetermined alignments.

Bainimarama said this approach will result in the manifestation of a fairer and more just system for all its citizens.

While highlighting Fiji's recent decision to join the Non Aligned Movement and signing of new diplomatic relations, Bainimarama said this significant shift in foreign policy direction heralds the globalization and maturity of Fiji and demonstrates Fiji's intention to become a good and engaged global citizen.

The Prime Minister said Fiji's commitment to being a good global citizen is further expressed by Fiji's ongoing engagement with the UN and its associated agencies and Secretariats and there is no better example of this engagement than Fiji's long contribution to the cause of the UN peacekeeping and peace building.

Commodore Bainimarama told the assembly that Fijian servicemen and women are currently serving in peacekeeping mission in Iraq, Southern Sudan, Liberia, Dafur, and Timor Leste.


Story by: Roneel Lal