28 Sep 2010

EU extends Fiji sanctions for six months

1:13 pm on 28 September 2010

The European Union has extended its sanctions against Fiji for a further six months.

The step was first taken in 2007 as part of an effort to encourage the interim government in Suva to help restore democracy, respect for human rights and of the rule of law in the country.

The EU says the latest extension follows the continued lack of progress in the implementation of key commitments that Fiji had agreed with the EU in 2007.

These commitments relate mainly to the respect for democratic principles, rule of law, human rights and fundamental freedoms.

The sanctions mean that assistance to Fiji's sugar sector continues to be withheld.

The Fiji regime has said it will not relinquish power to an elected government for another four years.