21 August, 2024
Earlier this month, Pacific Islands Forum Leaders agreed to deploy a Forum Troika-led mission to New Caledonia following the unrest that began on 13 May 2024.
The mission was requested by H.E Louis Mapou, President of the Government of New Caledonia to Forum Leaders, and at whose request, the mission was approved by the French State.
The Pacific Islands Forum Secretariat has been working with the French State and the Government of New Caledonia to ensure that the objectives and the arrangements for the mission meet the expectations of all relevant stakeholders.
It was intended that the mission would report to Forum Leaders at the 53rd PIF Leaders Meeting in Tonga with the visit scheduled to take place this week. However, the New Caledonia Government has identified a number of issues regarding due process and protocol that will need to be addressed prior to a Troika visit.
In order to allow additional time to resolve the concerns of our fellow Forum Member, the Forum Troika has decided to postpone their mission until after the Forum Leaders meeting in Tonga.
The situation in New Caledonia will be discussed at the Leaders meeting, which will provide further guidance on the way forward to support the situation.
The Forum family reaffirms its full commitment to support New Caledonia as best as it can during this time, including through the Troika-led mission to New Caledonia at a mutually agreed time.
[ENDS]
