A top official from Solomons Islands says Melanesian nations deplore the loss of democracy in Fiji, but are ready to help the military-led government.
Senior officials from members of the Melanesian Spearhead Group - comprising Fiji, Papua New Guinea, Solomon Islands and Vanuatu - met Fiji foreign ministry representatives in Suva yesterday to discuss the post-coup situation there.
One of the officials, secretary to the Solomons Cabinet John Roughan, described the MSG's position.
"Decrying the idea that things can be corrected by undemocractic means but at the same time saying: look, we're behind you, we're with you, can we help, where can we help, how can we help? And that kind message went out very clearly and very well."
Dr Roughan says a meeting of MSG foreign ministers could follow next month.
