Fiji's Prime Minister Frank Bainimarama has told the United Nations General Assembly that he has kept his promise about returning Fiji to democracy.
He told the 69th session of the General Assembly in New York it was the first genuine democracy in Fiji's history after forty years labouring under an undemocratic, unjust and unfair system.
It was the former military commander's first speech to the international community after his FijiFirst party was elected to power nearly two weeks ago.
Rear Admiral Bainimarama said Fiji has had a long and traumatic journey but that era is now behind it.
I will be the leader of all Fijians, for all Fijians. And as we move our beloved nation forward, I am determined to leave no-one behind. In that spirit, I extend a hand of friendship to my political opponents. Whatever our differences, let us work together constructively in our new Parliament - when it convenes on October 6th - to improve the lives of every Fijian.
Frank Bainimarama said Fiji wanted to cement its place as a pre-eminent Pacific nation and intended to play a bigger role internationally on the environment, climate change and the need for a fairer trading system.
Fiji First leader Frank Bainimarama Photo: RNZI
