New Zealand’s Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Winston Peters has successfully wrapped up a constructive visit to New Caledonia, emphasizing New Zealand’s support for peaceful dialogue regarding the territory’s institutional future. During the visit, Peters engaged with key figures including French Minister for Overseas Territories, Manuel Valls, and President of the Government of New Caledonia, Alcide Ponga.
Peters highlighted the importance of ongoing dialogue in facilitating stability in New Caledonia, particularly after the crisis faced by the territory last year. He remarked, “Violence is not the answer, and progress can only be made through careful, inclusive dialogue.” The discussions in Nouméa are seen as a positive development for the Pacific region, reinforcing good faith efforts to restore peace.
During his previous visit in December 2024, Peters secured a support package aimed at assisting New Caledonia’s recovery. In this latest trip, he reaffirmed New Zealand’s commitment to providing ongoing practical support, sharing economic development strategies that could foster social cohesion in collaboration with local authorities and entrepreneurs.
Regional security and foreign interference were also critical topics in discussions with Minister Valls. “New Zealand and France are long-standing partners on Pacific security issues, including humanitarian assistance and disaster response,” Peters explained. This partnership aims to safeguard the Pacific Islands against external threats that could hinder good governance.
Additionally, while in New Caledonia, Peters interacted with New Zealand Defence Force personnel participating in the Croix du Sud military exercise, which focuses on humanitarian assistance and emergency response in collaboration with other Pacific nations.
This visit by Peter aligns with broader regional efforts to support New Caledonia and ensure its pathway toward stability and prosperity. Earlier visits by other Pacific leaders, including a fact-finding mission by Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka of Fiji, underscore a collective commitment to understanding and addressing the challenges faced by New Caledonia. Such collaborative engagements foster hope for a cohesive and prosperous future for the territory and its residents.
The overarching theme of Peters’ visit was one of unity and constructive partnership, presenting an optimistic outlook for New Caledonia amidst its challenges.
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