NSW: Sanctions to remain until democracy restored

AAP General News (Australia)
08-21-2000
NSW: Sanctions to remain until democracy restored

Foreign Minister ALEXANDER DOWNER says Australia will maintain sanctions despite Fiji's
assurances democracy will be restored within two years.

Mr DOWNER says Fiji's interim Foreign Minister KALIOPATE TAVOLA has given a commitment
there will be a restoration of constitutional government and democracy in Fiji.

However, Mr DOWNER says sanctions will remain in place until a democratic government is returned.

Mr DOWNER reiterated the federal government's desire for the restoration of Fiji's
1997 constitution and the CHAUDHRY government during a meeting today in Sydney with his
Fijian counterpart.

But Mr DOWNER says it's clear from the meeting that Fiji has no intention of restoring
deposed prime minister MAHENDRA CHAUDHRY and his government.

Mr DOWNER says Mr TAVOLA has indicated it will be two years before a new election is held.

AAP RTV jo/nf

KEYWORD: FIJI DOWNER (SYDNEY)

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