Fiji’s Foreign Minister has called on the Non Aligned Movement member states to remain true to the principles of territorial integrity and sovereignty.
Speaking on behalf of the government of Fiji, Minister Ratu Inoke Kubuabola addressed the summit as one of the newest member of the body. Fiji was admitted to NAM in 2010 as the 120th member.
In his statement, Minister Kubuabola commended the work undertaken by NAM member states in progressing global issues and that of the UN Charter.
“As a group, we need to pursue a new international order based on inclusiveness, respect for sovereignty and territorial integrity, equality and justice. We have to find common grounds and take advantage of our numbers to advance our interests as a group”, Minister Kubuabola told world leaders at the summit.
“In our efforts to build a better Fiji, we have learnt that we should not be dismayed by those bigger powers that try to dictate to us how we should govern ourselves. Instead, we should remain strong and fully engage with those that are more understanding towards our cause; those which truly respect the principles of sovereignty, territorial integrity and non-interference. This is the reason we find great value in being a member of the Movement”.
Minister Kubuabola relayed at the summit the electoral work undertaken as the nation moves towards elections in 2014. In particular, the Foreign Minister highlighted the process for a new constitution to the NAM members.
“Based on the Roadmap, we are currently undergoing the Constitution Consultation process which would ensure that we will adopt a national Constitution by 2013; a Constitution that fully reflects the needs and aspirations of the Fijian people”, Minister Kubuabola said.
“Staying true to our cause as promised in 2009, we are advance in meeting our timelines towards the 2014 elections, and today we have seen a change in the positions of our bilateral and multilateral partners towards supporting Fiji’s Roadmap. We have commenced the electronic voter registration process”.
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