McCully likely to meet Bainimarama in Hong Kong

Foreign Minister Murray McCully and Fiji's self-appointed prime minister Voreqe (Frank) Bainimarama have agreed "in principle" to meet in Hong Kong next month, Parliament was told today.

Mr McCully outlined to Parliament the Government's latest moves to rebuild diplomatic representation in Suva, and said New Zealand had put forward the name of a new trade commissioner it wants to appoint to its mission.

He said Fiji had asked to have an honorary consul in Auckland, which was receiving favourable consideration.

Mr McCully and Cdre Bainimarama are both due to visit Hong Kong during the Hong Kong Sevens tournament between March 26 and 28.

"In principle, we have agreed to take the opportunity for an informal meeting if this proves logistically possible," Mr McCully said.

If the meeting takes place it will be the first direct high-level contact the Government has had with Fiji's military leader.