Prime Minister Rabuka has indicated that he needs to attend to matters in Fiji before heading to Israel to open Fiji’s embassy in Jerusalem next week Wednesday.

“This is essentially a demonstration of the seriousness of the region and the commitment from our leaders; how important it is for our people and of course our partner’s support."

“I do not condone the killings in Gaza, nobody should,” Mr Rabuka said, emphasising that no time is right when a Government decision has to be implemented.

“At this year’s meeting, I am hoping I will bring to fruition my proposal for the leaders to declare the Pacific as a Zone of Peace."

“So, we must be very clear. If we are going to be gathering at a time talking about an ocean of peace, we cannot talk about peace in our region and then engage and support those who do war, who do murder, and do harm on others.”