Leaders from the Pacific Islands Forum Troika are set to embark on a significant observational mission to New Caledonia this Sunday. This initiative aligns with a request from the New Caledonian government and adheres to terms agreed upon by the French State, the New Caledonian government, and endorsed by the Forum Leaders.
Leading the three-day mission will be Forum Chair and Prime Minister of Tonga, Hu’akavameiliku Siaosi Sovaleni, who will be accompanied by Cook Islands Prime Minister Mark Brown and Fiji’s Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka. Solomon Islands Minister for Foreign Affairs and External Trade, Peter-Shanel Agovaka, will also join the mission.
Prime Minister Hu’akavameiliku expressed the importance of the mission in light of recent unrest in New Caledonia. 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 discussions last month. This mission highlights the value of the region in coming together to help each other in times of need.”
The Forum Leaders will receive support from Secretary General Baron Waqa and senior officials, working under the guidance of both the French State and the New Caledonian government. Their itinerary includes a tour of Noumea and meetings with various stakeholders affected by the unrest that began in May. This includes engagements with political parties, young people, and communities, as well as dialogues with representatives from the private, health, and education sectors.
The Forum emphasized the significance of this mission during a crucial period for New Caledonia, which faces complex political dynamics and ongoing social and economic challenges. By gaining insights into local perspectives, the Forum aims to facilitate constructive dialogue regarding New Caledonia’s future while honoring its current status.
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