There are other means of trying to resolve the stand-off with the New Zealand government, but time has come to make some tough decisions against NZ's travel sanction policy.
Those are the words of the Permanent Secretary for Foreign Affairs Ratu Isoa Gavidi as we now await a decision by the interim government on whether NZ's Acting High Commissioner to Fiji Caroline McDonald would be expelled from the country.
Ratu Isoa said it is a political decision which has to be taken.
Earier Today:
The Interim Government will make its final decision in the next few hours on whether New Zealand's Acting High Commissioner to Fiji Caroline McDonald will be expelled as they will stick by their ultimatum for NZ to change its stance on travel bans imposed on two Fiji students.
Speaking to Fijivillage, Permanent Secretary for Foreign Affairs Ratu Isoa Gavidi confirmed that Commodore Bainimarama will speak to the NZ Foreign Minister in the next two hours before a decision is made whether to expel the High Commissioner.
Ratu Isoa stressed that the New Zealand government has gone too far with its travel bans.
Ratu Isoa said they do anticipate retaliatory measures from New Zealand if the expulsion order is executed, which the interim government is ready to accept.
Meanwhile, New Zealand Prime Minister, John Key has made it clear this hour that the NZ government will not amend its travel sanction policy against Fiji to suit the interim government.
Key has revealed to the NZ media that he has written to Commodore Frank Bainimarama this morning informing him about NZ's stance.
Key confirms that his Foreign Minister, Murray McCulley will also speak to Bainimarama this afternoon to try to stop the planned expulsion of Acting NZ High Commissioner to Fiji, Caroline McDonald.
