Leaders from the Pacific Islands Forum Troika will head to New Caledonia this Sunday for a high-level observational mission. This visit is in response to a request from the Government of New Caledonia and aligns with the Terms of Reference agreed upon by the French State and the New Caledonian government, which have been endorsed by Forum Leaders.
Tonga’s Prime Minister, Hu’akavameiliku Siaosi Sovaleni, who serves as Forum Chair, will lead the three-day mission alongside Cook Islands Prime Minister Mark Brown and Fiji’s Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka. They will also be joined by Solomon Islands Minister for Foreign Affairs and External Trade, Peter-Shanel Agovaka.
Hu’akavameiliku emphasized the significant public interest surrounding the mission. He stated, “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 Leaders’ discussion last month. This mission highlights the value of the region in coming together to help each other in times of need.”
The leaders will be accompanied by Secretary General Baron Waqa and senior officials, guided by the French State and the New Caledonian government. Their itinerary includes a tour of Noumea, engaging with various stakeholders affected by the unrest that began in May. This will involve discussions with New Caledonian political parties, youth, impacted communities, and representatives from the private, health, and education sectors.
The Forum emphasized that this mission arrives at a crucial time for New Caledonia as it deals with complex political dynamics and ongoing social and economic challenges. By gaining a deeper understanding of local perspectives, the Forum aims to better support the dialogue concerning New Caledonia’s future while respecting its current status.
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