Leaders from the Pacific Islands Forum Troika will embark on a high-level observational mission to New Caledonia this Sunday. This mission has been organized at the request of the New Caledonia government and will adhere to the Terms of Reference agreed upon by the French State and local authorities, and endorsed by Forum Leaders.
The three-day mission will be led by Forum Chair and Tonga’s Prime Minister, Hu’akavameiliku Siaosi Sovaleni. He will be accompanied by Cook Islands Prime Minister Mark Brown, and Fiji’s Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka, along with Solomon Islands Minister for Foreign Affairs and External Trade, Peter-Shanel Agovaka.
Hu’akavameiliku emphasized the mission’s significance amidst high public interest, stating, “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, receiving guidance from both the French State and the New Caledonian government. Their itinerary includes a tour of Noumea, where they will engage with various stakeholders affected by the unrest that began in May. This will involve discussions with political parties, youth groups, and impacted communities, as well as dialogues with the private sector, health care, and education sectors.
The Forum highlighted that this mission comes at a crucial juncture as New Caledonia grapples with complex political challenges and ongoing social and economic issues. By gaining insights from local perspectives, the Forum aims to better facilitate dialogue regarding New Caledonia’s future while honoring its current status.
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