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New Zealand Will Maintain Pressure on Fiji
New Zealand Prime Minister Helen Clark reassured deposed Fiji Prime Minister Mahendra Chaudhry Monday in Wellington that her country will maintain its pressure for a return to democracy in Fiji, Television New Zealand reported.
The reassurance was made when she was meeting with Chaudhry at the Beehive, the headquarters of the New Zealand government.
During the meeting, the deposed Fiji prime minister gave Clark a full briefing about Fiji's situation.
Chaudhry told Clark that he is pleased with the sanctions against Fiji which New Zealand has put in place so far, but firmer actions may be needed if the Fijian authorities do not set an acceptable timetable for a return to democratic rule.
Clark said Chaudhry's message is that international pressure is vital.
Before the meeting, Clark told local reporters that it would be helpful if legal action is taken against Fiji's coup leader George Speight, who is now held by the Fijian military. But, she added, the situation there is still worrying.
Clark said the sanctions New Zealand has in place will remain, and wider trade sanctions will be considered only if the situation in Fiji deteriorates substantially.
She called on the Pacific island nation to return to democracy as soon as possible, saying her country will give "the strongest support to those who support the restoration of democracy."
"We have drawn the line under our relationship with Fiji, which is now cool, distant and formal," the New Zealand Prime Minister said.
Chaudhry arrived in Wellington Sunday. Upon his arrival at the airport, Chaudhry told reporters that Speight should be charged with treason.
He said he is grateful for New Zealand's tough stance and smart sanctions against Fiji.
Chaudhry said he would urge New Zealand to toughen its sanctions against his coup-torn country if it fails to return to democracy swiftly.
At present, New Zealand sanctions against Fiji include cutting military ties, cutting aid and banning the coup plotters from travelling to New Zealand.
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