NEWS RELEASES
CANADA DEEPLY CONCERNED OVER DEVELOPMENTS IN FIJI
May 26, 2000 (2:45 p.m. EDT) No. 121
CANADA DEEPLY CONCERNED OVER DEVELOPMENTS IN FIJI
Foreign Affairs Minister Lloyd Axworthy and Secretary of State (Asia-Pacific) Raymond Chan today expressed
Canada's grave concern at reports that the attempted coup in Fiji might be settled in a way that does not
involve the immediate return to democratic rule.
Since the May 19 coup attempt, Fijian Prime Minister Mahendra Chaudhry and a number of his Cabinet
members are being held hostage in Suva. Recent reports indicate that the President of Fiji, Ratu Sir Kamisese
Mara, is being asked to form an interim government that will see the removal of the democratically elected
Prime Minister and his Cabinet, and possible amnesty for the coup participants.
"I am deeply disturbed at reports that an unconstitutional change of government may take place, and that the
coup leaders may escape justice. This would be unacceptable, particularly in a fellow Commonwealth member,"
said Mr. Axworthy. "Canada strongly supports Commonwealth efforts to find a solution that is consistent with
the Harare Declaration and the Millbrook Action Program, which uphold the principle of democracy."
"It is important that there be a quick and peaceful resolution to the current crisis in a way that respects
democratic principles and the rule of law," said Mr. Chan. "Anything less would represent a major step
backwards for Fiji. Canada calls for the immediate and unconditional release of the hostages."
Mr. Axworthy and Mr. Chan welcomed the visit to Fiji this week of the Commonwealth Secretary-General, Don
McKinnon, and the personal envoy of the United Nations Secretary-General, Sergio Vieira de Mello, to express
the concerns of the international community about the current situation. Mr. McKinnon has called a meeting of
the Commonwealth Ministerial Action Group to discuss the troubling developments in Fiji. Canada will be
represented at the meeting, which will take place in early June.
The Department of Foreign Affairs and International Trade recommends that Canadians defer non-essential
travel to Fiji until the situation becomes clearer. While there is no indication at this stage of any threat to foreign
citizens, including Canadians, in Fiji, given the volatility in the country, the department is monitoring
the situation closely.
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For further information, media representatives may contact:
Debora Brown
Office of the Minister of Foreign Affairs
(613) 995-1851
Naseem Nuraney
Office of the Secretary of State (Asia-Pacific)
(613) 995-1852
Media Relations Office
Department of Foreign Affairs and International Trade
(613) 995-1874
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