Suva is the capital of Fiji. It is located on the southeast coast of the island of Viti Levu, in the division of Central Fiji, which it is also the capital of. Suva became the capital of Fiji in 1877 when the geography of former main Kaivalagi (European) settlement at Levuka on the island of Ovalau proved too restrictive. At the 1996 census, the last to date, the city of Suva had a population of 77,366 [1]. Including independent suburbs, the population of the Greater Suva urban area was 167,975 at the same census.

Physical characteristics

Suva is the commercial and political centre of Fiji, and the largest city in the South Pacific outside of Australia and New Zealand. It is Fiji’s main port city and was the host of the 2003 South Pacific Games.

Although Suva is on a peninsula, and almost surrounded by sea, the nearest beach is 40 kilometers (25 mi) away at Pacific Harbour, and the nearby coast is lined by mangroves. A significant part of the city centre, including the old Parliament Buildings, is built on reclaimed mangrove swamp. Suva is noted for its considerable rainfall. Although it is not as wet as Pohnpei, the capital of the Federated States of Micronesia, it has a markedly higher rainfall than Nadi and the western side of Viti Levu, which is known to Suva citizens as “the burning west”.

Landmarks

Fiji’s tallest building, Suva Central, has been recently completed and stands 24.6 meters (81 ft) taller than the Reserve Bank of Fiji Building. Suva Central is currently the tallest building in the Pacific Islands region, is located near the old Morris Hedstrom store. Another well-known landmark is the Suva City Library, built in 1909 and financed by the Scottish-American steel tycoon Andrew Carnegie.

The government buildings complex occupies what was once the bed of a swampy creek. This was drained in 1935 and over five kilometers of reinforced concrete pilings were rooted in the creek bed to support the massive buildings that were to be erected. After the foundation stone was laid in 1937, the building was completed in 1939; a new wing was completed in 1967. Parliament, however, was moved to a new complex on Ratu Sukuna Road in 1992.

Government House was formerly the residence of Fiji’s colonial Governors and, following independence in 1970, Governors-General. It is now the official residence of Fiji’s President. Originally erected in 1882, it had to be rebuilt in 1928, following its destruction by lightning in 1921.

The Suva campus of the University of the South Pacific (USP) occupies what was once a New Zealand seaplane base. It is the largest of the many USP campuses dotted throughout the South Pacific.

The Fiji Museum, located in the Thurston Gardens, was founded in 1904 and originally occupied the old town hall, but moved to its present location in 1954. The museum houses the most extensive collection of Fijian artifacts in the world, and is also a research and educational institution, specializing in archeology, the preservation of Fiji’s oral tradition, and the publication of material on Fiji’s language and culture.

Suva has about 78 parks. These include the new Takashi Suzuki Garden and the Thurston Gardens. Opened in 1913, the Thurston Gardens are replete with flora from throughout the South Pacific. Apted Park, at Suva Point, is a well-known spot for viewing sunrise and sunset.

Demographics of Suva

Suva is a multiracial and multicultural city. Indigenous Fijians and Indo-Fijians, the two principal ethnic groups of Fiji, comprise the bulk of Suva’s population, but the city is also home to the majority of Fiji’s ethnic minority populations, which include Caucasians and Chinese, among others. The majority of expatriates working in Fiji are also based in Suva. The most widely spoken language is English, but Fijian, Hindustani, and other Indian languages are also spoken by their respective communities.

Institutions

Suva is host to more international and regional intergovernmental agencies and NGOs than any other Pacific Island capital, to the considerable chagrin of some other capitals (the staff of these agencies have considerable spending power).

The TRAFFIC Oceania South Pacific Programme, funded by the UK Foreign and Commonwealth Office, is located in Suva, in the offices of the WWF South Pacific Programme. The programme assists in the implementation of CITES, but also strengthens collaboration with the World Wildlife Fund.

The Fiji School of Medicine, which is now classed as a regional agency and a member of the Council of Regional Organisations in the Pacific, and the main campus of the University of the South Pacific are in Suva.

Suva also hosts the Secretariat of the Pacific Community (SPC), Pacific Islands Forum Secretariat and the South Pacific Applied Geoscience Commission.

Municipal government

Suva has municipal status and is governed by a Lord Mayor and a 20-member city council, which is controlled by the Soqosoqo Duavata ni Lewenivanua following elections on 12 November 2005. The current Lord Mayor is Ratu Peni Volavola.

History

In return for a promise to pay off debts owed to the United States by the Bauan chieftain, Seru Epenisa Cakobau, the Australian-based Polynesia Company was granted 5000 km² of land, 575 km² of it near what was then the village of Suva, in 1868. The original intention was to develop a cotton farming industry, but the land and climate proved unsuitable.

Following the annexation of the Fiji Islands by the United Kingdom in 1874, the colonial authorities decided to move the capital to Suva from Levuka in 1877. The transfer was made official in 1882. Colonel F.E. Pratt of the Royal Engineers was appointed Surveyor-General in 1875 and designed the new capital, assisted by W. Stephens and Colonel R.W. Stewart.

Following the promulgation of the Municipal Constitution Ordinance of 1909, Suva acquired municipal status in 1910. The town initially comprised one square mile; these boundaries remained intact until 1952 when the Muanikau and Samabula wards were annexed, expanding its territory to 13 square kilometers.

In October that year, Suva was proclaimed a City - Fiji’s first. Tamavua was subsequently annexed; the most recent extension of the city boundaries has been to incorporate the Cunningham area to the north of the city. Urban sprawl has resulted in a number of suburbs that remain outside of the city limits; together with the city itself, they form a metropolitan area known as the Greater Suva Area.

Entry will be denied to persons Who have been deported or removed from another country.

Passports
Passport valid for at least six months beyond intended period of stay required by all except nationals of Fiji when holding a Certificate of Identity including a photograph of the bearer. Holders of the certificate must obtain approval from the Fiji Immigration Department before arrival.

Visas
Required by all except the following who are issued a visitor’s permit valid for one month (extendable to four months) on arrival:
(a) nationals of countries shown in the chart above, except 1. nationals of Lithuania who do need a visa;
(b) 2. nationals of Commonwealth countries (except nationals of Cameroon, Mozambique, Namibia and Sri Lanka who do need a visa);
(c) nationals of Argentina, Brazil, Bulgaria, Chile, Colombia, Iceland, Indonesia, Israel, Kenya, Korea (Rep), Liechtenstein, Marshall Islands, Mexico, Micronesia (Federated States), Moldova, Monaco, Norway, Paraguay, Peru, The Philippines, Romania, Russian Federation, Switzerland, Taiwan (China), Thailand, Tunisia, Turkey, Ukraine, Uruguay, Venezuela, Vatican City and Zimbabwe;
(d) transit passengers continuing their journey to a third country within three hours, provided holding valid onward or return documentation and not leaving the airport.

Note
All visitors must hold onward or return tickets and sufficient funds to cover stay.

Types of visa and cost
Single-entry: US$77 Multiple-entry: US$137

Validity
Visas are valid for stays of up to three months, but can be extended on application to: Immigration Dept, Level 3, Suvavou House, Victoria Parade, Suva (street address); or PO Box 2224, Government Buildings, Suva, Fiji (postal address) (tel: 331 2622).

Application to Consular section of High Commission or Embassy; see Passport/Visa Information.

Application requirements
(a) Valid passport. (b) Completed application form. (c) Three passport-size photos. (d) Onward/return air ticket. (e) Copy of travel ticket/itinerary. (f) Fee payable by banker’s draft, bank cheque or by cash (if application is made in person). (g) Police clearance report (proof of no criminal record) from local police station (must be in English). (h) Sufficient funds for duration of stay.

Note
Applicants must make their own arrangements for collection/return of passport.

Working days required
Seven to 21.

Temporary residence
Enquiries should be directed to the High Commission or Embassy of Fiji.

Passport/Visa Information
Fiji High Commision in the UK
34 Hyde Park Gate, London SW7 5DN, UK
Tel: (020) 7584 3661.
Website: www.fijihighcommission.org.uk
Opening hours: Mon-Thurs 0930-1300, 1400-1700, Fri 0930-1300, 1400-1600; Mon-Fri 0930-1230 (consular section).

Embassy of the Republic of Fiji in the USA
Suite 240, 2233 Wisconsin Avenue, NW, Washington, DC 20007, USA
Tel: (202) 337 8320.
Website: www.fijiembassy.org

Travel Advice
Penalties for possession of any amount of marijuana carry a mandatory prison sentence.
There has been an increase in robbery, theft and assault. Travelers should take appropriate precautions.
The threat from terrorism in Fiji is low, but you should be aware of the global risk of indiscriminate terrorist attacks, which could be against civilian targets, including places frequented by foreigners.
This advice is based on information provided by the Foreign and Commonwealth Office in the UK. It is correct at time of publishing. As the situation can change rapidly, visitors are advised to contact the following organizations for the latest travel advice:

British Foreign and Commonwealth Office
Tel: (0845) 850 2829.
Website: www.fco.gov.uk

US Department of State
Website: http://travel.state.gov/travel

1
A yellow fever vaccination certificate is required from travelers over one year of age arriving within 10 days of leaving infected areas.

2
Following WHO guidelines issued in 1973, a cholera vaccination certificate is not a condition of entry to Fiji. However, cholera is a serious risk in this country and precautions are essential. Up-to-date advice should be sought before deciding whether these precautions should include vaccination, as medical opinion is divided over its effectiveness.

3
Vaccination against typhoid and polio is advised.

Food and drink
Mains water is normally heavily chlorinated and, whilst relatively safe, may cause mild abdominal upsets. Bottled water is available and is advised for the first few weeks of the stay. Milk is pasteurized and dairy products are safe for consumption. Local meat, poultry, seafood, fruit and vegetables are generally considered safe to eat.

Other risks
Diarrhoeal diseases are common. Hepatitis A occurs. Hepatitis B is endemic. Dengue fever may occur. Mosquitoes may transmit dengue fever and pandemic outbreaks occur. Personal protective measures are important. Marine hazards include corals jellyfish, sharks, sea urchins and sea snakes. Only bathe in marked and patrolled beaches.

Health care
The main hospitals are located in Ba, Labasa, Lautoka, Levuka, Savusavu, Sigatoka, Suva and Taveuni, with clinics and medical representations elsewhere throughout the islands. Medical insurance is recommended. There is a private hospital in Suva that provides western style medical care and maintains the Fiji Decompression Chamber for the benefit of scuba divers. Medical emergencies may be referred to Australia, New Zealand or the USA. Doctors and hospitals expect immediate cash payment for health services.

International cuisine is available, but the local cooking is Fijian and Indian. Table service is normal, although some establishments offer buffet-style food at lunchtime. Hotels often serve meals to non-residents. Bars and cocktail lounges have table and/or counter service. Only licensed restaurants, clubs and hotel bars can serve alcohol.

National specialties:

- Kakoda (a marinated local fish steamed in coconut cream and lime).

- Rourou (a taro leaf dish).

- Kassaua (tapioca, often boiled, baked or grated and cooked in coconut cream
with sugar and mashed bananas).

- Duruka (an unusual asparagus-like vegetable in season during April and May).

- Breadfruit.

- lovo (feast of meat, fish, vegetables and fruit cooked in covered pits).

National drinks:

- A wide range of drinks is available including the traditional kava. Traditionally, the drink was prepared by virgins, who chewed the root into a soft pulpy mass before adding water. It is made from the root of the pepper plant and the yaqona drinking ceremony is still important in the Fijian tradition, although it has also become a social drink.

- Carlton (a local beer brewed in Suva).

- Fiji Bitter (brewed in Lautoka).

- Meridan Moselle and Suvanna Moselle (local wines).

- Booth’s Gin, Bounty Fiji Golden Rum, Cossack Vodka and Old Club Whisky (produced by South Pacific Distilleries).

Tipping: Give small tips only for special services.

Favorite buys are filigree jewelry, woodcarvings (such as kava bowls), polished coconut shells, seashells, woven work (such as mats, coasters, hats, fans and trays), tapa cloth and pearls. Bargaining is not the norm in shops. Some shopkeepers will give a discount with large purchases. Duty free items are available and include cameras, televisions, watches, binoculars, clocks, lighters, hi-fi equipment, pewter, crystal and porcelain.

Shopping hours
Mon-Fri 0800-1900, Sat 0800-1300 (some shops have half-day closing on Wednesday and are open later on Friday).

Currency Information:

Fijian Dollar (FJD; symbol F$) = 100 cents. Notes are in denominations of F$50, 20, 10, 5 and 2. Coins are in denominations of F$1, and 50, 20, 10, 5, 2 and 1 cents.

Currency exchange

Exchange facilities are available at the airport, at trading banks and at most hotels. ATMs may not accept foreign credit cards.

Credit and debit cards

American Express, Diners Club, MasterCard and Visa are accepted at a number of establishments. Check with your credit or debit card company for details of merchant acceptability and other services which may be available. American Express, Diners Club, Visa, JCB International and MasterCard have representatives in Suva. American Express and Visa can replace lost and stolen credit cards and traveller’s cheques.

Traveller’s cheques

To avoid additional exchange rate charges, travelers are advised to take traveller’s cheques in Australian Dollars or Pounds Sterling.

Currency restrictions

There are no restrictions on the import of foreign or local currency, provided declared on arrival. Unspent local currency can be re-exchanged on departure up to the amount of foreign currency imported. The export of local currency is limited to F$500. The export of foreign currency as cash is limited to the equivalent of F$500.

Banking hours

Mon-Thurs 0930-1500, Fri 0930-1600. Restricted Foreign Exchange Dealers (authorized to issue foreign currency and traveller’s cheques for travel-related purposes only): Mon-Fri 0830-1700, Sat 0830-1200.

Tropical. Southeast trade winds from March to November bring dry weather. The rainy season is from December to April. On average there are 15 cyclones per decade, affecting some part of Fiji, and two to four actually cause severe damage. They occur from November to April and with greatest frequency in January and February. There is more risk in the outlying north-west island groups.

Required clothing
Lightweight for summer, rainwear for the wet season.

Watersports

Particularly well known for their soft coral reefs, Fiji’s islands offer excellent scuba-diving and snorkeling. On Viti Levu, the best dive sites are found on the Coral Coast and Pacific Harbour (both on the western side), where the well-known Beqa Lagoon, the crater of an extinct volcano that measures 16km (10 miles) across, is often frequented by groups. About 12km (7 miles) off the Viti Levu coast, Vatulele is known for its red prawns, regarded as sacred by local people. Northwest of Viti Levu, divers may head to the Yasawa and Mamanuca island groups to the south lies
Kadavua, where the Astrolabe, Namalata, Solo and Tavuki reefs are located.

Vanua Levua and Taveuni are particularly good for land-based diving, and ecologically-minded operators have buoyed dozens of sites to prevent damage from anchors. The best sites around these islands include the Somosomo Straits (home to the Great White Wall, one of Fiji’s most famous dive sites) and the Rainbow Reef (where over 20 dive sites can be found). Live-aboard dive tours are available to the more remote islands, such as Ngau, which has no resorts and where the local chief has to grant permission to dive in the waters.

Many hotels and resorts also offer opportunities to go sailing, windsurfing, waterskiing, canoeing, kayaking, parasailing and game fishing. Surfing is a popular activity and surfers have a seemingly endless choice of locations to choose from. The famous ‘Cloud Breaker’ (6-meter wave) was found offshore at Tavarua, attracting surfers from around the world. Fiji’s waves typically break on coral reefs. Most of the well-known spots are on or near Viti Levu and can often only be reached by boat. Tavarua Island is another favorite surfing spot. There are several surf camps, notably on Beqa and Yanuca islands. Visitors should note that there are dangerous rip tides along the reefs, and should take appropriate precautions.

Adventure sports

The mangrove-lined tidal corridors can be explored on jet-boating trips, which depart every 15 minutes from Port Denauru, 7km (4 miles) from Nadi Town. Bamboo rafting (referred to locally as a bilibili ride) is available along the streams and rivers.

Hiking

Fiji’s network of marked nature trails can be explored either individually or on organized guided walks. Activities such as birdwatching (as for example in the Colo-i-Suva Forest Park), ecotourism (studying the local fauna and flora) and swimming at the waterfalls are often combined with hiking tours. Visitors are reminded to respect local customs when passing through villages (see Social Conventions in the Travel Tips section).

The Lavena Coastal Walk starts at Lavena and follows the southeastern coastline of Taveuni, ending at the Wainabau Waterfalls; the Vidawa Forest Walk is a guided trip through the Bouma Forest Park. Marked trails (including wooden walkways and bridges) also exist in the Kula Eco Park, an area of coastal rainforest rich in wildlife (including fruit bats, parrots and marine turtles).

There is much of scenic and historic worth in Fiji, including its copra, ginger, sugar cane and cocoa plantations. The capital, Suva, has many old shops and markets selling various artifacts and handicrafts. Places of historic interest include the National Museum, situated in the lush surrounds of Thurston Gardens next to Government House, and the old Parliament Buildings.

Other sites of note include the Cultural Center at Orchid Island, the mysterious earthworks just outside Suva, and the protected Bouma Forest Park and Taveuni Island Reserve. Just 11km (7 miles) from Suva, visitors can enjoy the beauty of the protected Colo-I-Suva Forest Park. Other natural attractions include the acres of orchids and flowering plants in the Garden of the Sleeping Giant at the foot of the Sabeto Mountains and the Sigatoka Sand Dunes off the main Queens Highway on Viti Levu.

Cruises on large schooners or yachts to the different islands can be arranged, and coach tours around the main islands are also available. For the hardy, hiking in the mountains with dramatic views of the islands is another option.

Tavarua is one of Fiji’s main tourist destinations, with over 50 resorts and hotels and excellent facilities for snorkeling and scuba-diving. The Outrigger Reef Resort is located in Korotogo near the scenic town of Sigatoka. It combines the qualities of mainland and island, with over 200 hotels and resorts.

Fiji maintains an independent, but generally pro-Western, foreign policy. It has traditionally had close relations with the United Kingdom, as well as with its major trading partners Australia and New Zealand. These relations cooled after both the 1987 and 2000 coups, and Fiji was suspended for a time from the Commonwealth of Nations, a grouping of mostly former British colonies.

It was readmitted to the Commonwealth in December 2001, following the parliamentary election held to restore democracy in September that year. Other Pacific Island governments have generally been sympathetic to Fiji’s internal political problems and have declined to take public positions.

Fiji became the 127th member of the United Nations on October 13, 1970, and participates actively in the organization. Fiji’s contributions to UN peacekeeping are unique for a nation of its size. It maintains nearly 1,000 soldiers overseas in UN peacekeeping missions, mainly in the Middle East.

Since independence, Fiji has been a leader in the South Pacific region, and has played a leading role in the formation of the South Pacific Forum. Fiji has championed causes of common interest to Pacific Island countries.

Diplomatic and trade developments

As of 2005, Fiji has become embroiled in a number of disagreements with other countries, including the United States, Australia, New Zealand, China, and Vanuatu.

Tensions with the United States

On 2 March 2005, Prime Minister Laisenia Qarase strongly reacted to a U.S. State Department report criticizing Fiji for practicing racial discriminiation, and for the racial divide between Fiji’s two main political parties, the SDL (mostly indigenous Fijian) and the Fiji Labour Party (mostly Indo-Fijian). “Fiji can make a similar report on the US on all those issues. Our report would be far worse than the US State Department’s report on Fiji,” he said. He went on to rebuke the United States for interfering in Fiji’s “domestic affairs.”

In an interview with the Fiji Times on 29 May 2005, America’s outgoing Ambassador David Lyons renewed his country’s criticism of Fijian policies by criticizing the Qarase government’s proposed Reconciliation and Unity Commission. Lyons expressed concern that its provisions for amnesty for persons convicted of involvement in the coup d’etat that overthrew the elected government in 2000 would encourage further coups in the future.

“If a democratic society doesn’t make it clear that the violent over-throw of its elected leaders is a crime against that society, I have to think that it is inviting future upheaval,” he said. He also condemned statements of public figures predicting coups if they, their party, or their race is not successful in the next parliamentary election, saying that such threats were “absolutely despicable in a free, democratic society” and constituted “the worst form of scaremongering.”

Lyons said that the amnesty for perpetrators of the 1987 coups had been an error of judgement and had set a precedent which could negatively affect the future unless stopped now. He concurred with statements made by a number of Fijian politicians, including deposed Prime Minister Mahendra Chaudhry and Senator Adi Koila Nailatikau, that a coup culture had taken root in Fiji.

He warned that tourism, which forms the mainstay of the Fijian economy, would be adversely impacted by any further instability. He believed, he said, that the Qarase government was sincere in its commitment to democracy, and acknowledged positive steps taken by the government to restore the rule of law. He added a word of caution, however: “All of these positive steps … will vanish in an instant if there is another coup or sufficient political upheaval questioning the legitimacy of future elections.”

On 12 July, however, Lyons cautioned the Fijian Military against using the legislation as a pretext for a coup d’etat. Their concern over the proposed law was understandable, he said, but it did warrant the overthrow of the government. “Extra constitutional action against a duly elected democratic government … is unacceptable,” he said. A coup would be detrimental not only to Fiji, but to the entire Pacific region, Lyons said.

Relations with Australia

On 13 April 2005, Qarase rejected criticism from Australia and some other countries over the prosecution and imprisonment of two foreigners charged with committing homosexual acts, which are illegal in Fiji, and said that other countries needed to respect Fiji’s independence. Qarase said that as member of the United Nations, Fiji was as entitled as any other country to make its own laws as it saw fit.

The Australian government has taken a more measured position than its New Zealand counterpart (q.v.) over the controversial Reconciliation, Tolerance, and Unity Bill currently being debated in the Fijian Parliament. Susan Boyd, a former Australian High Commissioner to Fiji, has strongly criticized the legislation, but Foreign Minister Alexander Downer has said that it is an “internal matter” and that Australia does not want to get involved.

He did, however, condemn recent threats from the Military commander, Commodore Frank Bainimarama, to declare martial law and arrest members of the present government if the bill is passed. The Australian High Commission in Suva told Bainimarama that his threats are not “the proper role for the military in a democracy.”

Australian Foreign Minister Alexander Downer visited Fiji for two days of talks, from 28-30 September 2005. Downer met government ministers and officials, Opposition Leader Mahendra Chaudhry, and Military commander Commodore Frank Bainimarama. The talks covered the controversial Unity bill, as well as the future of Fiji’s preferential trade access to the Australian market, which the Fijian government regards as a priority. Downer said that he intended to elaborate further on Prime Minister John Howard’s promise of a seven-year extension of the SPARTECA-TCF scheme, which assists Fiji’s textile, clothing, and footwear industry.

Foreign Minister Tavola expressed grave concern on 7 February 2006 about a proposed Regional Trade Agreement (RTA) between Australia and China, saying that Fiji’s exports to Australia would be unable to compete with Chinese products. For that reason, Fiji was persisting in its efforts to persuade Australia to renew the South Pacific Regional Trade and Economic Cooperation - Textile Clothing Footwear (SPARTECA-TCF) scheme, to improve the competitiveness of Fijian exports, the Fiji Live news service reported.

Relations with China and Taiwan

A diplomatic row with the People’s Republic of China erupted on 5 May 2005, when Taiwan (ROC) President Chen Shui-bian arrived for a private visit and was welcomed at a private function at Suva’s Sheraton Resort by Vice-President Ratu Joni Madraiwiwi, Ratu Ovini Bokini (Chairman of the Great Council of Chiefs), Senate President Taito Waqavakatoga and several other Senators and MPs, and several judges including Chief Justice Daniel Fatiaki. Foreign Minister Kaliopate Tavola asserted that those who attended the welcoming ceremony did so “of their own accord,” not as government representatives, and that Prime Minister Qarase’s presence in the same hotel where President Chen was staying was purely “coincidental.” Chinese Ambassador Cai Jin Biao rejected this explanation, and said that the visit was a violation of the One China Policy, to which Fiji had agreed when diplomatic relations were established in 1975, which would “sabotage relations between China and Fiji.” He charged that Prime Minister Qarase and Foreign Minister Tavola had known of the upcoming visit for months. The embassy issued a further statement on 7 May, demanding that Fiji discontinue any effort to establish a dialogue with Taiwan.

The row escalated when, on 16 May, Health Minister Solomone Naivalu voted in support of Taiwan’s bid to gain observer status at the World Health Assembly in Geneva. Naivalu had apparently done so on his own initiative, contrary to a government briefing, sparking a major public disagreement between himself and Foreign Minister Tavola. Jia Qinglin, chairman of the People’s Political Consultative Conference (CPPCC), was dispatched to Fiji and met Prime Minister Qarase during a brief stopover on 21-22 May, a move that Tavola said was not coincidental. He said that Fiji could not afford to lose China, and that the government would ensure that “careless incidences” like Naivalu’s vote in Geneva would not recur. Naivalu responded by saying that his vote was nothing new: “We always support Taiwan to get observer status every year,” he said.

On 10 December 2005, the New Zealand Herald quoted Tavola as saying that Fiji would have to find a way to resolve a stand-off between the PRC and Taiwan, over membership of the Suva-based Council of South Pacific Tourism Organisation; China was resisting Taiwanese attempts to join the organization on an equal basis. “If China had its way it would not want Taiwan on that. So we have to resolve the situation amicably and are looking at how both countries can be represented there,”‘Tavola said.

In defence of the earlier incident over the Taiwanese President’s visit, Tavola said that it was the Pacific way to welcome people. “Even when considering Taiwan as a province of China, he went on, the President of a province is a man of high profile, so when he comes there is an urge to extend hospitality.” It did not signify any modification to Fiji’s adherence to the One China policy, he had explained to the Chinese ambassador.

China has invested in a number of major projects in Fiji. These include the Suva sports stadium, built for the South Pacific Games of 2003.

On 14 December 2005, Fiji’s Military Commander, Commodore Frank Bainimarama began an official visit to China, at the invitation of the People’s Liberation Army. He reaffirmed Fiji’s support for the One China policy.

It was announced on 24 January 2006 that Chinese Premier Wen Jiabao would visit Fiji in April to open the China-Pacific Islands Countries Economic Development and Cooperation Forum Ministerial Conference 2006 at Sofitel Fiji Resort in Nadi, a conference of economic and trade ministers from Pacific island countries. Six Prime Ministers from neighbouring countries are expected to participate, according to a Fiji Times report on 23 February. His visit to Fiji will be the first by a senior Chinese government official.

In an interview with PACNEWS on 1 February 2006, Jeremaia Waqanisau, Fiji’s Ambassador to Beijing, made a stinging attack on the efficiency of the Fijian civil service, saying that it negatively affected Fiji’s ability to present itself to China. Cabinet Ministers visited China without the Fijian embassy being informed, he complained. Certain civil servants were extremely passive in their dealings with China, he said. Another factor inhibiting Chinese investment was the instability caused by friction between the government and the Military, he surmised, and the Fijian embassy in Beijing was continually engaged in damage control.

Relations with New Zealand

On 10 June 2005, Foreign Minister Tavola signed a Memorandum of Understanding with his New Zealand counterpart, Phil Goff, aimed at fostering cooperation in the fight against terrorism. Meanwhile, New Zealand’s Prime Minister Helen Clark announced that New Zealand would double its annual aid to Fiji, from NZ$4 million to NZ$8 million. Much of this aid, the Fijian government revealed, would be used for poverty alleviation and squatter resettlement.

New Zealand’s Foreign Minister Winston Peters (who replaced Goff in late 2005) flew into Fiji on 8 February 2006 for three days of talks with Fijian government officials. He met Prime Minister Qarase, Finance Minister Ratu Jone Kubuabola, and Military Commander Commodore Frank Bainimarama on the first day of his visit; meetings with Foreign Minister Tavola and House of Representatives Speaker Ratu Epeli Nailatikau were held later. The meeting with Bainimarama attracted some media attention; Bainimarama said that the meeting had been approved by Prime Minister Qarase and that there was nothing underhand about it.

The talks are to cover such matters as the Pacific Plan and a cost-sharing agreement for a citizen education project, promoted by the United Nations Development Programme.

Concern over reduced British presence

Foreign Minister Tavola expressed concern on 11 July about moves by the British government to reduce its presence in the Pacific region. “We were not happy with that and on occasions, informed them of the folly of their decision to downsize their presence in the Pacific,” Tavola said. Britain has already closed its consulate in Kiribati and plans to close its missions in Tonga this year and Vanuatu next year. Britain has also withdrawn from the Secretariat of the Pacific Community, a regional organization of which it was a founding member and a major donor.

Tavola said the British withdrawal could create a power vacuum which others could exploit. A new Cold War era could come to the Pacific region, he said, with rivalries between China and Taiwan, as well as between China and Japan.

Trade war with Vanuatu

On 11 March 2005, Vanuatu imposed a ban in biscuit imports, ostensibly to protect its own biscuit manufacturing industry, giving a monopoly on the business to the Santo-based Wong Sze Sing store. The ban was the second in a year. Bread and breakfast cereals produced by Flour Mills of Fiji (FMF) were the worst-hit; the company claimed to be losing F$2 million annually.

Fiji retaliated on 13 June with a threat to impose a total commercial embargo on Vanuatu. Major income-earners for Vanuatu targeted by the Fijian government include Vanuatu kava, valued at almost US$3.2 million, and Air Vanuatu flights (US$8 million).

On 29 June, Foreign Minister Tavola said that Fiji was “running out of patience” and that he was writing to the government of Vanuatu in what he called a “final gesture of friendship.”

On 27 July, Vanuatu’s Trade Minister James Bule signed an order lifting the ban, effective from 22 July. No reason was given for the change of policy, but the Fiji Live news service reported that the decision averted a lawsuit from FMF and the threatened kava ban.

Fiji’s Foreign Affairs chief executive officer, Isikeli Mataitoga, said that Fiji’s policy of pursuing diplomatic channels in dealing with such disputes had been vindicated. “Whilst I agree that it can take a bit of time to see it through carefully, it nevertheless, demonstrates to our regional friends that we are principled in our approach to international relations and diplomacy,” Mataitoga said. (more…)

Fiji is an island nation in the Pacific Ocean. Though geographically Melanesian, Fijian music is more Polynesian in character. Nevertheless, Fijian folk styles are distinct in their fusion of Polynesian and Melanesian traditions. Folk music is dominated by vocal church music, as well as dances characterized by rich harmony and complex percussion made from slit drums or natural materials.

Folk music

Modern Fijians play mandolin, guitar and ukulele along with a variety of indigenous instruments, most commonly lali drums, which are now used to call the people of an area together. Lali drums were an important part of traditional Fijian culture, used as a form of communication to announce births, deaths and wars. A smaller form of the lali drum (lali ni meke) is used as a form in instrumentation. Meke is a kind of spiritual folk dance, in which dancers bodies are said to be possessed by spirits.

Other percussion instruments include the derua, which are tubes made of bamboo which are stamped on mats or on the ground. Other dances included the women’s dele, which humiliated enemy prisoners sexually, and the men’s cibi, which uses spears and clubs

Pop

In the 1980s, Fijian performers like Laisa Vulakoro and Lagani Rabukawaqa became pan-Pacific stars. Vulakoro is especially well-known for her part in creating vude, a popular style that combines disco, country and island music (especially the meke rhythm) and rock and roll.

Other modern performers include the band Nuku Katudrau, Karuna Gopalan, The Black Roses, Danny Costello, Michelle Rounds, Seru Serevi and The Freelancers .Fiji is especially known for the field of Fijian reggae.

As a multiracial and multicultural nation, Fiji’s culture is a rich mosaic of indigenous, Indian, and European traditions. The main focus of this article is traditions native to Fiji; customs of immigrant cultures are covered more fully in other articles. For the culture of Indo-Fijians, see Culture of India

Hierarchy

Fijian society is very communal, with great importance attached to the family unit, the village, and the vanua (land). A hierarchy of chiefs presides over villages, clans, and tribes. Chiefly positions are hereditary; a deceased chief is invariably followed by a kinsman, though not necessarily his own son. This reflects Polynesian influence: in most other Melanesian societies, chiefs are appointed on merit.

The largest social unit for Fijians is the Yavusa, defined by historian R.A. Derrick as the “direct agnate descendants of a single kalou-vu” (deified ancestor), who is supposed to arrived with the legendary Lutunasobasoba migration. The Yavusa, therefore, are the descendants of a single original member of the migration. Chiefly succession was from older brother to younger brother, after the death of their father. When the youngest brother died, the eldest son of the eldest brother became chief. This tradition still influences Fijian society today, though less rigidly: there is more of a tendency nowadays towards primogeniture.

Each brother in the family then formed his own branch of the yavusa, called the Mataqali. Each mataqali became the custodian of a specific task. A fully developed Yavusa has several mataqali:
Turaga : This mataqali descends from the original ancestor through primogeniture - inheritance of the eldest son in each succeeding generation. The chief of a village is always chosen from the Turaga mataqali.
Sauturaga : These are next in rank to the chiefs, support him, and enforce his commands.
Mata ni vanua : These form the official heralds of the village. They are also in charge of ceremonial functions.
Bete : This was the traditional priestly class. The kalou-vu was believed to speak through the Bete.
Bati : This mataqali forms the traditional warrior class.

The mataqali are subdivided into Tokatoka, each comprising closely related families.
Several Yavusa comprise a village, several of which form a district. The British colonial rulers amalgamated the districts into Yasana, or Provinces. The districts also form three Matanitu, or Confederacies. These are often said to be agglomerations of provinces, but as the latter were a colonial imposition, the boundaries do not coincide exactly, and the Provinces of Ba and Ra are each split between two Confederacies.

The Kubuna Confederacy covers Tailevu, Bau, and Verata, on the south east side of the main island of Viti Levu. This Confederacy is traditionally considered to be the most senior. The other two are Burebasaga (covering the rest of Viti Levu), and Tovata, covering Vanua Levu, the Lau Islands, and the Lomaiviti archipelago. Despite its isolation and relatively small size, Tovata has been politically dominant since Fiji gained its independence in 1970.

Music and dancing

An indigenous art form is the Meke, which may incorporate the seasea (women’s fan dance) or a make wesi (men’s spear dance). It is usually a narrative of an important event such as a war, a chiefly installation, or even a scandal. Some mekes are generations old, and form an important part of Fiji’s oral history. In olden times, the meke was considered to be an oracle from the gods, and the Dau ni vucu, or composer, would often go into a trance before a performance. Others are modern, composed for a particular event, much as a poet laureate might write a poem to celebrate an event in a Western country. Each district of Fiji has its own form of meke, performed in the local dialect.

Costume

The traditional attire was loin cloths for men and grass skirts for women. Skirts were short for single women, and long for married women, with girls wearing virgin locks before marriage. Most had the lower parts of their bodies decorated with tattoos. Chiefs dressed more elaborately.

Modern Fiji’s national dress is the sulu, which resembles a skirt. It is commonly worn by both men and women. Many are elaborately decorated with patterns and designs. Many men, especially in urban areas, also have sulus tailored as part of their suit. Many will wear a shirt with a western-style collar, tie, and jacket, with a matching sulu and sandals. Even the military uniforms have incorporated the sulu as part of their ceremonial dress. Trousers are rarely worn by indigenous Fijian men.

Women usually wear a multi-layered Tapa cloth on formal occasions. A blouse made of cotton, silk, or satin, of often worn on top. On special occasions, women often wear a tapa sheath across the chest, rather than a blouse. On other occasions, women may be dressed in a chamba, also known as a sulu I ra, a sulu with a specially crafted top.

There are many regional variations throughout Fiji. Residents of the village of Dama, in Bua Province, wear finely woven mats called kuta, made from a reed.

Men of chiefly rank usually wear a piece of brown masi around their arms or their waist. Chiefs may also decorate their hair with sandalwood dust.

Yaqona

Kava, known in Fiji as Yaqona, is Fiji’s national drink. Traditionally, it was used only in important ceremonies. Nowadays, it is a social beverage. There is a strict protocol associated with yaqona drinking. One should clap once, clasping the hands, take the cup, and drink the yaqona in a single mouthful, before returning the cup to the bearer, clapping three times, and saying the word maca (pronounced: maÞa).

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