Fiji's Prime Minister Frank Bainimarama has dealt his Samoa counterpart a verbal blow in their latest exchange, labelling Tuilaepa Sa'ilele Malielegaoi a lap dog.
Photo: RNZ
The comments to Fijivillage follow critical statements made by the Prime Ministers of New Zealand and Samoa about Fiji's stand of not participating in the Pacific Islands Forum while Australia and New Zealand remain members.
Mr Bainimarama also took Australia and New Zealand to task for not leading with strong commitments to alleviate climate change.
Tuilaepa told the Samoa Observer this week that Mr Bainimarama was new to governance and with his military background, he could only "play the drums and train".
He also said that the Forum is made up of fourteen very poor nations and Australia and New Zealand provide the much needed funding for the meetings and many of the plans that are made.
Mr Bainimarama says he is not bothered about Tuilapea as he is dancing to the tune of the Australians and the New Zealanders.
