FED: New agreement to crack down on paedophiles in Fiji

AAP General News (Australia)
12-18-1998
FED: New agreement to crack down on paedophiles in Fiji

CANBERRA, Dec 18 AAP - A new agreement signed today between Australia and Fiji will make it
easier for police to crack down on paedophiles exploiting young children in the Pacific
islands.

The memorandum of understanding signed by Foreign Minister Alexander Downer in Suva follows
an earlier agreement with the Philippines which has already led to the arrest of five
Australians.

"The Anti-Paedophilia MOU will further strengthen cooperation between Australia and Fiji
police to combat child sexual abuse and other serious crimes in both countries," Mr Downer
said in a statement.

"It provides for timely cooperation between the relevant authorities on inquiries or
investigations initiated by either side, and exchanges of intelligence.

"Joint cooperation in the fight against child sex crime will discourage those who look
towards the Pacific island countries as a destination in which to conduct paedophile
activities."

Justice Minister Amanda Vanstone said the memorandum would further strengthen efforts to
combat the exploitation of children in the Pacific.

"The Australian Federal Police already work closely with the Fiji police in combating child
sex tourism by Australians," Senator Vanstone said in a statement.

"The agreement will help to reinforce the commitment by both governments to stamping out
such activity."

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