(Pacnews) -

Papua New Guinea (PNG) is to take up the position of interim chair of the Pacific Islands Forum, following the military takeover of Fiji...’s democratically elected government of Laisenia Qarase.


Fiji held the chairmanship of the Forum after it hosted the annual Pacific Leaders summit in October this year.

A statement from the Pacific Islands Forum Secretariat in Suva said consultations amongst Pacific Leaders resulted in the decision to ask PNG to assume chairmanship of the Forum.

Papua New Guinea prime minister, Sir Michael Somare one of the remaining elder statesmen in the Pacific held the position before Fiji took up the one-year position in October.

The Suva secretariat has been advised that Sir Michael has agreed to this arrangement.

"This decision was made on the basis that the actions of the Republic of Fiji Military Forces have prevented deposed Prime Minister, Mr Laisenia Qarase, from exercising his leadership of the Fiji Government, and have consequently made it impossible as a matter of practicality for him to fulfil his duties as Forum Chair", Forum Secretary General Greg Urwin said

Mr Urwin said PNG would assume the position until such time as a lawful head of government in Fiji was able to re-occupy the position, or until the next Leaders...’ meeting ...– whichever occurs sooner.

"We are pleased that the Terms of Reference for a Forum Eminent Persons...’ Group (EPG) is acceptable to the RFMF-installed regime," said Mr Urwin.

"The group will undertake a mission to Fiji to underscore the importance of democratic principles under the Biketawa Declaration, consult with government and other stakeholders about the current political situation and come up with recommendations on how Fiji and the Forum can work together to return the country to democratic and constitutional rule."

"As one of the founders of the Forum in 1971, and as a member of our family of Pacific island countries, the Forum remains dedicated to assisting Fiji steer towards a peaceful and lawful resolution of the current situation,"” said Mr Urwin.