Fiji expels diplomats
03 Nov 2009
Chris Bryant said he is 'deeply disappointed' that Fiji has expelled the Australian High Commisioner and New Zealand Deputy High Commissioner.Interim Fijian Prime Minister Frank Bainimarama held a press conference on 3 November announcing his intention to expel Australian High Commissioner James Batley and New Zealand Deputy High Commissioner Todd Cleaver.
They have been given 24 hours to leave Fiji. The Fiji High Commission to Australia, Kamlesh Arya, has also been recalled to Fiji.
Foreign Office Minister Chris Bryant said:
'I am deeply disappointed that the regime in Fiji has expelled the Australian High Commissioner and the New Zealand Deputy High Commissioner. This is a backward step which will isolate Fiji further from the international community. The people of Fiji need their government to be engaging with their neighbours, and diplomatic channels must be kept open.
The UK government maintains its strong opposition to the regime in Fiji and again urges a swift return to democracy, freedom of expression and the rule of law.'
Further information
British High Commission in Fiji
