Leaders of the Pacific Islands Forum Troika are set to embark on a high-level mission to New Caledonia this Sunday.
This mission, which is strictly observational, aligns with the request from the New Caledonia government and follows the Terms of Reference approved by the French government and the local authorities, with endorsement from Forum Leaders.
The three-day mission will be chaired by Tonga’s Prime Minister, Hu’akavameiliku Siaosi Sovaleni, who will be accompanied by Cook Islands Prime Minister Mark Brown and Fiji’s Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka. They will also be joined by Peter-Shanel Agovaka, the Solomon Islands Minister for Foreign Affairs and External Trade.
Hu’akavameiliku expressed the significance of the mission in response to the public interest surrounding it. “Our thoughts have always been with the people of New Caledonia since the unrest earlier this year, and we continue to offer our support. I am pleased that we are finally undertaking this critical mission, particularly following discussions among Leaders last month,” he stated. “This mission highlights the value of the region in coming together to help each other in times of need.”
The Forum Chair will be aided by Secretary General Baron Waqa, along with senior officials, all under the guidance of the French State and the New Caledonia government. The leaders will tour Noumea and engage with various stakeholders affected by the unrest that began in May, which includes discussions with political parties, youth groups, impacted communities, and representatives from the private, health, and education sectors.
The Forum has indicated that this mission is timely, as New Caledonia addresses complex political dynamics and ongoing social and economic challenges. By gaining insights into local perspectives, the Forum aims to enhance support for the dialogue regarding New Caledonia’s future, while also respecting its current status.
Leave a comment