24 Oct 2014

Fiji's suspension from Pacific Islands Forum is lifted

2:38 pm on 24 October 2014

The chair of the Pacific Islands Forum, Palau's President, Tommy Remengesau, has announced Fiji's suspension from the Forum has been lifted.

In a just released statement Mr Remengesau says he has directed the secretariat in Suva to deliver his letter to Fiji's Prime Minister, Rear Admiral Frank Bainimarama, saying the Forum's leaders have decided to lift the suspension on Fiji forthwith.

He says Forum leaders were unanimous in their decision based on a recommendation from its Ministerial Contact Group following last month's return to democracy.

Mr Remengesau says the Forum Leaders very much look forward to Fiji's participation and contribution to all Forum activities.

Fiji was suspended in 2009 for reneging on an earlier commitment to hold elections after then Commodore Bainimarama had staged a military coup in 2006.

Fiji has previously stated on a number of occasions that it will not return to the Forum as long as Australia and New Zealand remain members.

No caption

Photo: PIF