Leaders from the Pacific Islands Forum Troika are set to visit New Caledonia this Sunday for a high-level observational mission. This mission follows a request from the Government of New Caledonia and is aligned with the Terms of Reference agreed upon by the French State and the local government, as endorsed by Forum Leaders.
Tonga’s Prime Minister Hu’akavameiliku Siaosi Sovaleni will lead the three-day mission, 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.
Prime Minister Hu’akavameiliku expressed the significance of the mission, noting the public’s keen interest. He mentioned, “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 supported by Secretary General Baron Waqa and senior officials from both the French State and the New Caledonia government. Their itinerary includes a tour of Noumea and meetings with stakeholders affected by the unrest that began in May, engaging with New Caledonian political parties, youth, impacted communities, and representatives from the private, health, and education sectors.
The Forum emphasized that this mission occurs at a crucial moment as New Caledonia navigates complex political dynamics while addressing ongoing social and economic challenges. By gaining insights into local perspectives, the Forum aims to better support the dialogue regarding New Caledonia’s future while respecting its current status.
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