NO BREAK DOWN OF AIRLINE TALKS: FOREIGN AFFAIRS MINISTRY

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs and External Trade states, there is no ‘break down’ of talks between respective Governments of Fiji and Solomon Islands over the current airlines impasse as stated by the print media last Friday and today.

The Ministry says, the talks in Suva were the first of its kind as a means of consultation provided for under an existing 1990 government to government Air Services Agreement between Fiji and Solomon Islands.

It adds, the consultation provision purports to “enable the parties to discuss on any related issues arising thereto and any changes wanting by a party to propose and discuss with the other at any relevant time”.

It further explains, the process of consultation was dis-continued by Solomon Islands because there is need for further consultation between the Government of Solomon Islands and relevant stakeholders such as the Solomon Airlines and the Civil Aviation Authority on issues arising during the first talks in Suva recently.

The consultation will continue as both governments have expressed keen interest to resolve the impasse amicably.

The Government, Solomon Airlines and the Civil Aviation Authority are consulting and addressing issues raised and will liaise closely with the Solomon Islands High Commission in Fiji in working towards resolving the matter.

The Air Service Agreement provides that both Governments can consult from time to time and this is the channel for talks between the parties that will be used for further discussions on issues relating to the airlines impasse.