Financial Sanctions and Embargoes Lifted Against Fiji by US and Australia
New Era of Partnership and Prosperity Between Australia and Fiji
In a significant move, the United States and Australia have lifted financial sanctions and embargoes against Fiji following democratic elections in the South Pacific nation last month. The lifting of sanctions marks a new era of partnership and prosperity between Australia and Fiji.
Australian Foreign Minister Announces Lifting of Sanctions
Australian Foreign Minister Julie Bishop announced on Friday during a two-day visit to Fiji that her country had lifted all remaining sanctions, including the sale of weapons. According to Bishop, this move demonstrates the Australian government’s commitment to strengthening their relationship with Fiji.
US Ambassador Also Lifts Restrictions
US Ambassador to Fiji Frankie Reed also announced that the United States was lifting restrictions on financial assistance to the Fijian government. Reed added that his country is exploring opportunities to resume engaging with Fiji’s military.
Fiji’s Election Marks a Significant Milestone
Fiji’s election last month marked a significant milestone for the island nation of 900,000, which has been under military rule since Voreqe Bainimarama seized control in a 2006 coup. Bainimarama’s Fiji First party won a decisive victory at the polls.
International Efforts to Normalize Relations with Fiji
The moves by Australia and the US follow international efforts to normalize relations with Fiji. In September, the Commonwealth group of nations reinstated Fiji as a full member, while last week the Pacific Islands Forum lifted its suspension of Fiji.
Strong Ties Between Australia and Fiji
Australian Foreign Minister Julie Bishop emphasized that her country is Fiji’s largest trading partner and biggest investor in the country. She noted that:
- Around 300,000 Australians visit Fiji each year
- About 50,000 Fijians live and work in Australia
- Australia has invited Fiji to join its seasonal workers program
The lifting of sanctions and embargoes marks a significant step towards normalizing relations between Fiji and the international community.