PM: Approach West Papua alleged human rights violations with caution, find resolution
The Prime Minister Voreqe Bainimarama says the alleged human rights violations in West Papua must be approached with both caution and hopes to find a resolution.
Mr Bainimarama said because Fiji was vice president to the United Nations Human Rights Council, he welcomed the invitation by Indonesia for the United Nations High Commissioner on Human Rights to visit West Papua.
He said Fiji was committed to the protection of human rights for all. In doing so, it is concerned on alleged reports of human rights violations in West Papua and strongly advocate for the protection of the human rights of all in West Papua.
“We are committed to finding an amicable resolution to this pressing matter – but most importantly one that is in line with international laws and practices,” he said.
“Fiji acknowledges the cries of CSO (civil society organisations), saying that this is in fact a matter of life or death to many West Papuans and we must tread boldlybut thoughtfully – as we move forward as a region.”
He added that territorial disputes have fuelled wars and chaos since the beginning of time.
He again reiterated his call for members to step up and support this ambitious venture.
Fiji also sees the urgent need for us as a region to tackle the issue of illicit drugs trafficking, affecting our communities. There is a clear need for some regional collaborative action at all levels on this.