15 Jul 2010

Fiji's interim PM invites Pacific leaders to an "Engaging Fiji" meeting

11:14 am on 15 July 2010

Fiji's interim Prime Minister is inviting Pacific Island leaders to an 'Engaging Fiji' meeting.

Fiji's Ministry of Information says the meeting will be held in Natadola from July 22 to 23.

It follows the deferment of the Melanesian Spearhead Group Summit which Fiji was to host and chair, and the expulsion from Fiji of Australia's acting high commissioner in apparent retaliation.

Fiji's interim Foreign Affairs Minister, Ratu Inoke Kubuabola says many Pacific leaders have indicated their willingness to support Fiji's roadmap towards democracy and sustainable development.

He says the Fiji government is keen to discuss these issues with leaders, but it "expects a good reception" as it has been open and transparent about what it's doing to take the country forward.

It is not yet known exactly which countries have been invited or have accepted invitations to the meeting.