Pacific

Fiji issues likely to be prominent as Pacific political scientists gather

19:29 pm on 5 December 2011

The Fiji situation will be a key focus at the Pacific Islands Political Studies Association's biennial conference in Samoa this week.

The meeting is being hosted by the University of the South Pacific's Alafua Campus.

The conference brings together academics, policy makers and diplomats from across the region to share research, exchange ideas and debate contemporary issues.

Association president, Dr Steven Ratuva, says he expects varying views on the Fiji situation to be aired.

"Particularly the issues on Fiji, as we have a good mixture of people with different political positions on Fiji. We'll also have discussions on the Fiji and Tonga relationship which has been controversial as well, particularly their dispute over Minerva Reef. There will be discussions on regional dynamics on a broader level, and also in terms of specific country issues."

Auckland University's Dr Steven Ratuva.