The high-level Forum Troika Plus Mission to New Caledonia is set to commence tomorrow, October 27, and will run until Tuesday, October 29. This mission follows the directive from Forum Leaders during the 53rd Pacific Islands Forum meeting in Tonga in August.
The mission will be observational in nature, adhering to the Framework agreed upon by the French State, the New Caledonian government, and endorsed by Forum Leaders. Tongan Prime Minister Hu’akavameiliku Siaosi Sovaleni will lead the delegation, which includes fellow leaders such as Mark Brown, Prime Minister of the Cook Islands, and Sitiveni Rabuka, Prime Minister of Fiji. They will also be joined by Peter-Shanel Agovaka, the Solomon Islands Minister for Foreign Affairs and External Trade.
Prime Minister Sovaleni expressed that the leaders have kept the people of New Caledonia in their thoughts since the unrest earlier in the year and are committed to providing support. He noted, “I am pleased that we are finally undertaking this critical mission, particularly following leaders’ discussions last month. This mission highlights the importance of regional collaboration in times of need.”
The leaders will be assisted by Secretary General Baron Waqa and senior officials, who will work alongside them under the auspices of the French State and the New Caledonia government. During their visit, the delegation will tour Noumea and engage with various stakeholders affected by the recent unrest, including political parties, youth, and impacted communities, as well as discussions with the private sector, healthcare, and education organizations.
This mission is significant as it seeks to navigate the complex political landscape while addressing ongoing social and economic challenges in New Caledonia. By gaining insight into local perspectives, the Forum aims to foster constructive dialogue regarding New Caledonia’s future while honoring its current status.
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