This is what the New Zealand Finance Minister Grant Robertson had to say when talking about the NZ$900 million (FJ$1269.58m) loan that their government is giving to their national airline: “Without this intervention, New Zealand was at risk of not having a national airline.”

He, like many others, understands the importance of having a national carrier.

He goes on to say: “The government owns 52 per cent of the company, which means we have a responsibility toward it. We have acted swiftly to put this loan agreement in place and support our national carrier.”

This was reported by Bloomberg.

It is noteworthy that none of the New Zealand Opposition Parties have criticised their national carrier, they have not tried to destabilise the company and have all backed Government’s decisions.

In contrast, our local politicians, failed politicians and those who are working hard to relaunch their political career have led a campaign to undermine our national carrier.

We have people who believe that Fiji doesn’t need a national carrier the size of Fiji Airways.

We have had tragically amusing comments made on social media when Fiji Airways’ profits were announced.

Tragically amusing yet so ignorant. The profits declared are from last financial year, pre-COVID-19

Every country knows the importance of having a national carrier. If we continue to play politics with ours, we will not be prepared for the easing of travel restrictions.

Feedback: jyotip@fijisun.com.fj