Fiji's Foreign Minister Ratu Inoke Kubuabola has welcomed what he describes as New Zealand's change of position on Fiji but he says it may have come a little too late.
New Zealand's Foreign Minister Murray McCully has announced a further easing of sanctions on Fiji and more assistance for elections in recognition of Fiji's progress towards elections next year.
Ratu Inoke says it is positive New Zealand has recognised progress but says its change of stance will have little impact at this late stage and that is regrettable.
The minister says he is pleased the sporting ban has been formally lifted and scholarships for students from Fiji will be restored.
He says the continuing support of the New Zealand Government towards the election process is valuable.
