This week the Minister for Foreign Affairs, Hon. Ratu Inoke Kubuabola received a courtesy visit from a delegation from the New Zealand Parliament, led by Rt. Hon. David Carter, the Speaker of New Zealand Parliament.
Rt. Hon. David Carter emphasised that his delegation was pleased to see the parliamentary democracy in process especially with their observations in the parliament during the Question Time. He stated that “we were impressed with the exchanges in the parliament for the past two days…and would like to continue to assist in any way”.
Minister Kubuabola expressed his appreciation towards New Zealand’s reinforced commitment and friendship between the respective parliaments. Hon. Minister Kubuabola also emphasized that Fiji has a young parliament with new experiences and that democracy takes time and patience to mature. Both Hon. Minister Kubuabola and Hon. David Carter also acknowledged the support of the UNDP to this process.
The visit concluded with other discussions on areas of cooperation such as the recognised seasonal employment scheme, Fiji’s re-engagement with the PIF and the appointment of the Fijian High Commissioner to New Zealand.
Press Release