We may not agree on everything – or perhaps anything – but that is all right.

Deputy Prime Minister Professor Biman Prasad said this of Opposition Leader Inia Seruiratu and Unity Fiji Party leader Savenaca Narube while speaking at the Fiji Institute of Chartered Accountants conference last week.

Prof Prasad acknowledged their participation in a panel at the forum and said he did not expect either of them to give him an easy time.

“But this is the dialogue and debate that we need if we are to open up economic policy and share it with our fellow citizens,” the Finance Minister said. 

“We may not agree on everything – or perhaps anything! – but that is all right. “Economic policy should be contestable.

“Debating and discussing it is the first step towards a more unified approach to solving our long-term economic challenges. 

“I recall that Save took the time to attend and contribute to the National Economic Summit last year.

“I thank him for understanding the need for the national interest to prevail over party politics.

“I hope at the next Summit we will also see the Parliamentary Opposition there in force.”