Statement by Foreign Minister Yohei Kono on the hostage situation in Fiji

May 19, 2000

1. I understand that on May 19 in the morning, a group of armed ethnic-Fijians took over the Fijian Parliament, seizing Prime Minister Chaudhry and other Ministers and Parliament members. Japan is concerned about such a situation in Fiji. We see as regrettable any attempt to overthrow by force a democratically elected government.
   
   
2. I understand that attempts led by such persons as the Fijian President, Ratu Sir Kamisese Mara, are being made to resolve this situation. Japan will keep a close watch on the situation with great concern, strongly hoping for its early settlement. We will also continue our efforts to ensure the safety of Japanese nationals residing or touring in Fiji and to advise them to pay attention to the security situation.
   
   

Related Information (Japan-Fiji Relations)