Fiji PM Offers 'Engagement' With Australia, New Zealand

November 9, 2009 7:27 a.m. EST

Suva, Fiji (AHN) - Fiji's Prime Minister Commodore Voreqe Bainimarama has offered the Australian and New Zealand governments 'engagement at all levels'.

This engagement including trade and investment, among others, is offered on a level playing field in which Fiji's sovereignty and dignity is respected and maintained.

Bainimarama made the comment while delivering the keynote address at the Telecom Fiji Limited Prime Minister's Exporter of the Year Award on Saturday.

This award is the premier event to salute the achievement of Fiji's exporter's in the global trade arena and their contribution to the Fiji economy.

While the three governments recently had a diplomatic row, Bainimarama assured all Fijian businesses, Australians and New Zealanders that such issues will not affect trade, tourism, business co-operation, collaboration and investment.

"On the contrary we encourage more trade, investment and tourism between our traditional partners of Australia and New Zealand.

"I find it most encouraging that notwithstanding the recent events, tourism, trade and business associations and collaboration between our people have not been affected," he told those present Saturday night.

As well, Bainimarama urged participants, particularly businesses houses to expand their trade with all of Fiji's neighbors and seek constructive engagement with them.

"You all have the chance and ability to do so. Indeed you must do so - not just for your businesses but for Fiji and all Fijians," he said.

AHN Media is currently seeking comments to the Prime Minister's address.