Au Lifts Travel Ban to Fiji
Minister for Foreign Affairs Julie Bishop announced Monday that the Australian Government is lifting all travel bans to Fiji.
The announcement includes travel sanctions against the Prime Minister, ministers, military personnel and their family members, government appointees and the judiciary.
"This decision follows a review of Australia's travel sanctions, announced during my visit to Fiji on 14-15 February. The travel sanctions have been in place since December 2006." Ms Bishop said in a statement.
Renewing bilateral ties with Fiji is expected to ensue following the decision.
"It follows the significant progress Fiji has made towards holding elections by September, as recognised by the Pacific Islands Forum Ministerial Contact Group-of which I am a member-during our visit to Fiji in February." Ms Bishop said.
With this announcement, Australia expresses its support to Fiji's renewed democracy as a member of the Pacific family.
"We are confident that lifting travel restrictions will lay a framework for closer dialogue and cooperation with Fiji on bilateral and regional issues. Australia will work with the Government of Fiji and other donors to support Fiji's 17 September election preparations."
On Saturday, Fiji's interim Attorney-General and Minister Responsible for Elections, Aiyaz Sayed-Khaiyum confirmed that Fiji will have its election on Sept. 17. The Sept. 17 election is in lieu of a ratification of Fiji's constitution by Fiji's President, Ratu Epeli Nailatikau in 2013. This is going to be the first Fijian elections since the military coup led by current interim Prime Minister Frank Bainimarama in December 2006.
On March 5 Commodore Bainimarama resigned as Commander of the Fiji Defence Force on March 5 following an announcement that he will run for office for the upcoming election.
On Monday, Permanent Secretary for Justice, Mohammad Saneem will announce his resignation to accept the delegation as Supervisor of Elections.
In line with the upcoming Fijian election, Ms Bishop confirmed that two Australians will take seat in the Fijian Elections Office as Deputy Supervisor of Elections and the Director of Operations.
"This will build on the significant role Australia is already playing in supporting Fiji's electoral preparations and its return to parliamentary democracy," Ms Bishop announced.