Fiji expels diplomats (03 November 09)
Interim Fijian Prime Minister Frank Bainimarama held a press conference on 3 November announcing his intention to expel Australian High Commissioner James Batley and New Zealand Deputy High Commissioner Todd Cleaver.
They have been given 24 hours to leave Fiji. The Fiji High Commission to Australia, Kamlesh Arya, has also been recalled to Fiji.
Foreign Office Minister Chris Bryant said:
'I am deeply disappointed that the regime in Fiji has expelled the Australian High Commissioner and the New Zealand Deputy High Commissioner. This is a backward step which will isolate Fiji further from the international community. The people of Fiji need their government to be engaging with their neighbours, and diplomatic channels must be kept open.
The UK government maintains its strong opposition to the regime in Fiji and again urges a swift return to democracy, freedom of expression and the rule of law.'
Notes for Editors
British High Commission in Fiji
Julie Chappell OBE, presented her credentials as new Ambassador
Julie Chappell OBE, presented her credentials as the new UK Ambassador to Guatemala. She will do the same for El Salvador and Honduras. Learn more about this event here.
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