Thursday, June 14, 2007

New Zealand’s High Commissioner Declared Persona Non Grata By Fiji's Interim Government

THE SYDNEY MORNING HERALD: Fiji can expect a "strong reaction" after expelling New Zealand's high commissioner from the country, New Zealand Foreign Minister Winston Peters said today.

Peters said the high commissioner in Suva, Michael Green, had been declared persona non grata by the interim government.

"The New Zealand government deplores this action," Peters said in a statement.

"Expelling diplomats is not the way for neighbours to conduct their relationship."

Fiji's expulsion of the diplomat follows New Zealand and Australia's criticisms of the interim government set up following a military coup in December, which overthrew the democratically-elected government. Fiji expels New Zealand commissioner (more)

NEW ZEALAND HERALD:
Fears for NZers in Fiji after diplomat's expulsion

Mark Alexander