Fiji coup

The coup has taken place. It has been bloodless so far. Hopefully it will stay that way. The US has reacted by cutting aid funds to Fiji. I hope Bainimarama has a plan that will benefit the Fijian people. I don't really think what he is doing will do the country any good. Australia has also strongly condemned the coup and Alexander Downer calls it "a tragic day for Fiji and for the region"

The following is taken from a press release from Alexander Downer, Minister for Foreign Affairs, Australia. For the full text visit:

http://www.foreignminister.gov.au/releases/2006/fa135_06.html

"I strongly condemn the Fiji military’s unconstitutional removal of the Government of Prime Minister Qarase.

This is a tragic day for Fiji and for the region. In overthrowing the democratically elected Government of Fiji, Commodore Bainimarama has shown his contempt for the constitution and for the rule of law, for the people of Fiji and Fiji’s traditional institutions, and for the weight of international opinion. His takeover of the government is completely unconstitutional and illegal, and cannot be justified on any grounds. His statements to the contrary are wrong. The Fiji economy, already affected by the military’s actions, will be badly damaged, and the people of Fiji will suffer even more."

Despite all this I heard today that there are actually flights going into Fiji that are full. I have not had this confirmed however my source at the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade said that people are finding really cheap travel packages and are not afraid to take advantage of the situation. Maybe if I have time I will do some research into this.

Robert

Travel Registration

If you are going to a foreign country on vacation you should seriously consider registering your trip details with your government. This helps the local embassy or consulate contact you if a situation arises where you need to be contacted in a hurry. For example someone back home may be sick and you need to get back urgently to see them. Or if there is a political situation like they are currently experiencing in Fiji you may need to be evacuated. If you have registered your embassy will contact with evacuation details. Another thing to mention is the need to keep an eye on the travel advice published on various government websites.

Speaking of Fiji the word in the press is that the army will take control of the country tomorrow morning. If this does happen it is a set back for the country as already tourist numbers are down due to the talk of a coup. It is a shame for the people of Fiji. Exactly one year today my family and I flew into Fiji for a holiday after we were able to find a cheap flight. The Fijian people are very friendly and we thoroughly enjoyed our time in Fiji. Our only regret was that we did not stay for a longer period.