Regional hub

THE article titled “Fiji the Regional Hub” by Jioji Kotobalavu in the FT 05/10 made a very interesting reading.

I just like to make this additional side comment on the margin of this issue.

Regionalism and a collective single voice approach on global issues, is to me the only way our small island state can make itself heard on the international scene. Regional forums and gatherings also help to articulate more clearly, the views and comments of the smaller island countries on issues they may find difficult to enunciate at their own national levels. Obviously, there is always security in numbers when a country –– albeit small, is trying to make its voice heard and stance known.

However, while this may be so, history has shown to us that regionalism has not always had the relative success in our region as one would expect, despite our relative smallness and isolation. The concept of a regional airline, regional shipping and some other regionally-based ventures, have not come to fruition, despite being seen as advantageous to the economic advancement of the region.

The reason is sometimes plainly obvious and understandable, even by the most ardent of supporters.

It’s all to do with national interests and sovereignty.

It is human nature, that when these two stances are considered to be at risk, from a particular country’s perspective, then no amount of push to adopt a regional stand on an issue or venture, would be successful.

There is always a delicate balance between regionalism and national interest.

Regionalism can only be successful, if it becomes clear to a country, that the latter two are not at risk. Oftentimes, however, stances adopted, are always swayed in the latter two’s favour. Regional history is replete with it.

Just my additional side comment in relation to the interesting article.

EDWARD BLAKELOCK

Admiral Circle, Pacific Harbour.