2 Oct 2015

Fiji warns of climate refugee influx

7:52 am on 2 October 2015

Fiji's Prime Minister, Frank Bainimarama, has warned of a mass exodus of climate change refugees, comparing it to the migration crisis affecting Syria.

Speaking at the United Nations General Assembly in New York, he appealed for the world to acknowledge the threat of global warming to Pacific countries.

Mr Bainimarama says all countries have to work harder to reduce emissions, as the consequences of climate change are very real.

"And we have committed to resettle people for other low-lying South Pacific island states that face the prospect of being swallowed up by the rising ocean and falling into oblivion."

Frank Bainimarama

Frank Bainimarama Photo: Republika