A Fiji economist doubts the Pacific Island Forum will suspend Fiji's membership because of the economic importance the country has in the region.
The website Fiji Live quotes the University of the South Pacific Dean of Economics, Dr Biman Prasad, as saying the Forum is an important institution for the region and it would not help any member to be out of it.
His comment comes after the Forum's threat to suspend Fiji if it does not commit to its promise to the Forum in Tonga last year to hold elections by March.
Dr Prasad says Fiji's continued participation is important given that the region is going through a significant economic change and is in the process of discussing important trade, climate change and development issues.
He says the important trade negotiations such as EPA with the EU, the discussion and preparation for the negotiations for PACER are all important developments that need the full participation of countries like Fiji.
Dr Prasad says Fiji's suspension would also mean adversities for smaller island nations such as Tuvalu and Kiribati who are dependent on it.
