The Fijian government has expressed grave concern over the announcement made yesterday by the European Commission and Australia of the allocation of 4 million Euros to be channeled through Australia Pacific Technical College for the training of Fijians connected with the sugar cane industry.
Prime Minister and Minister for Sugar, Commodore Voreqe Bainimarama said the intended association demonstrates a unilateral approach towards development assistance rather than a partnership approach.
Commodore Bainimarama said this approach is highly irregular.
He said it is also unclear as to how this training through the Australia Pacific Technical College will complement the Fijian government’s revival of the sugar cane industry or how it will tie in with the national policies on targeted development and creating sustained livelihoods.
Commodore Bainimarama said the government believes that if the European Commission is genuine about development and assistance, it must reconsider its association with Australia Pacific Technical College and work with organizations such as Fiji National University and the government to achieve the best results for all Fijians.
The Prime Minister who met with the Deputy Director of EuropeAid said the purpose and the intended benefits from this approach are highly questionable, since there were no consultations with the Fijian Government or relevant stakeholders.
We have asked the EU for a response.
We are still waiting for their comment.
Story by: Vijay Narayan
