EU Presidency Statement on the situation in Fiji

Press release 492/2006
27 November, 2006

The Presidency of the European Union reiterates the concern expressed by the EU on 26th October 2006 with regard to the situation in Fiji and strongly urges all parties to refrain from any action which could increase tension.

The Presidency notes that the coalition government formed after the elections in May 2006 has full democratic legitimacy and a large majority in the Parliament. The EU strongly believes that in a democracy, the military must be subordinate to the elected civilian leadership. The EU opposes any attempt to undermine the democratic process in Fiji.

The Presidency urges all the parties involved to pursue a dialogue aiming at resolving the current state of tension and restoring democratic stability in Fiji.