Fiji, April 27 -- A former United Nations security executive and Rewa High Chief Ro Naulu Mataitini has issued a blunt warning that Fiji is weakening its own foreign policy by sidelining its diplomats and allowing foreign influence to dominate decision-making.

In a strongly worded social media statement, Mataitinji said political behaviour and poor strategic focus are eroding Fiji's ability to defend its national interests.

"There is something about politicians. To get elected, they will promise anything. But once inside Parliament, too many follow their worst instincts. They convince themselves they are better than everyone else."

"Why? They succumb to ceremonial glorification from within-learning highfalutin words, seeing themselves ...