Media Statement

Fiji’s President is the Head of State and holds the highest office in the land. When the President represents Fiji internationally, the arrangements made should properly reflect the dignity and standing of that Office and of the Republic itself.

The same principle applies, in appropriate proportion, to all office holders of Government who are required to represent Fiji overseas. Whether it is the President, the Prime Minister, a Minister, an Ambassador or another authorised representative of Government, the level of protocol, security, logistical and official support should be appropriate to the office held, the responsibilities being discharged and the nature of the engagement.

This is not an argument for extravagance. Public funds must always be used responsibly, and official travel must be reasonable, necessary and within the means available to Government. But responsible expenditure does not mean that Fiji should inadequately equip or support those whom we send to represent the country.

There must be a sensible balance. The Head of State, as the holder of the highest office, will naturally require a level of official support appropriate to that Office. Other office holders should similarly be supported at a level proportionate to their positions and the duties they are undertaking.

Fiji is a small developing country and we must always be conscious that these expenses are ultimately borne by our taxpayers. At the same time, Fiji is a sovereign nation. When our representatives engage other governments and international institutions, they carry the name and interests of our country with them.

Our approach should therefore be straightforward: no extravagance and no unnecessary expenditure, but neither should we diminish the dignity of our national institutions or compromise the ability of our representatives to do their work effectively. We should represent Fiji well, within reason and within our means.