MEDIA RELEASE
Released By:
Downer
I am pleased to announce Australia is making significant progress in resuming
a full and productive development partnership with Fiji since sanctions were
lifted last October.
Through the Australian Government's overseas aid agency, AusAID, several
measures are being taken to help promote stability in the country.
These include actively supporting the key position of Deputy Director of
Public Prosecutions in Fiji and holding discussions later in the year on ways to
increase public confidence in the law and justice sector.
It has also established a scheme to provide direct support to strengthen the
role of civil society groups in Fiji.
In the health and education sectors, Australia and Fiji will jointly develop
major new programs throughout the year. $1 million has already been committed to
provide medical supplies, vaccines and improved nutrition to support basic
health services. The funding will also go towards the establishment of libraries
in 92 primary schools throughout the country.
A new hospital, 3 nursing stations and 3 rural health centres financed in
part by Australia will be completed later this year on Taveuni Island. Community
health training undertaken as part of the project will lead to improved rural
health services on the island.
Australia values its relationship with Fiji and looks forward to the time
when full bilateral aid can be restored.
Media contacts:
Matt Francis (Ministerial) 02 6277 7500 / 0419 206
890
Fionna Douglas (AusAID) 02 6206 4960 / 0412 804
489