A high-level Forum Troika Plus Mission to New Caledonia is set to commence from October 27 to October 29, following a directive from the Forum Leaders at the 53rd Pacific Islands Forum meeting held in Tonga in August. This mission will be strictly observational, adhering to the request of the Government of New Caledonia, and will operate under Terms of Reference that have been agreed upon by the French State and the local government, with endorsement from the Forum Leaders.
The mission will be led by Hu’akavameiliku Siaosi Sovaleni, the Tongan Prime Minister and Chairperson of the PIFS, along with fellow leaders Mark Brown, Prime Minister of the Cook Islands, and Sitiveni Rabuka. They will be accompanied by Peter-Shanel Agovaka, the Solomon Islands Minister for Foreign Affairs and External Trade.
Prime Minister Sovaleni expressed his concern for the people of New Caledonia following the unrest earlier this year, emphasizing continued support from the Forum. He noted the importance of this mission, particularly in light of discussions among leaders last month, highlighting the significance of regional collaboration in times of crisis.
The mission will be aided by Secretary General Baron Waqa and senior officials, who will offer guidance in coordination with the French State and the New Caledonia government. The team will visit Noumea and engage with various stakeholders affected by the recent unrest, including political parties, youth groups, and communities, while also fostering dialogues with the private sector, health services, and educational institutions.
The mission holds crucial importance as it seeks to navigate the intricate political landscape and address ongoing social and economic issues in New Caledonia. By gaining insights from local perspectives, the Forum aims to enhance support for continued dialogue concerning New Caledonia’s future, while honoring its current status.
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