By ROSI DOVIVERATA
The Chinese Government is delighted to see Fiji’s progress towards the general elections next year.
Chinese Ambassador Huang Yong said: “The Chinese Government is willing to provide necessary assistance for the election.
“The details of the assistance will be decided by both parties through consultation.”
It is understood that the Chinese government assistance for the September 2014 election will remain a matter for the two governments to discuss.
It is understood that the Chinese government assistance for the September 2014 election will remain a matter for the two governments to discuss.
Earlier in May, Prime Minister Voreqe Bainimarama was the first Pacific island leader invited to visit China since the new Chinese leadership took office.
For years, China has provided invaluable support for economic and social development in Fiji. While in China, the Prime Minister said Fiji is pushing forward reform and development, and hopes to learn from China’s experience and to step up cooperation.
Chinese President Xi Jinping during his meeting with Prime Minister Bainimarama said that that it has always been China’s consistent stand that all countries, big or small, strong or weak, rich or poor, are equal members of the international community and should treat each other with mutual respect and equality.
Meanwhile, during France’s National Day celebrations last week, French Ambassador Gilles Montagnieur said France is pleased with the actions taken by the current government towards holding free and transparent elections in 2014 based on the principle recognised by all democracies: one person, one vote.
Mr. Montagnier urged those hoping to contest Fiji’s general elections next year to remember that a fair campaign means fair for everyone not just the Government.”
“The campaign preceding the election will, as everywhere in the world, be a struggle for each party to achieve its project for society,” he said.
“But this fight, as in sport, must follow certain rules of loyalty and once the election is over, it must stop, waiting to resume at the next elections.”
France has pledged support for the elections, contributing 20 per cent of the European Union total contribution.
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