Pacific Leaders Address New Caledonia Unrest

Three Pacific Islands leaders visited New Caledonia to understand the causes of recent deadly riots. The riots, fueled by a disputed voting reform, highlighted tensions between indigenous Kanaks and French loyalists. The leaders emphasized the need for collaborative efforts to foster peace and proposed financial aid for recovery.

During a recent visit to New Caledonia, leaders from three Pacific Island nations were confronted with conflicting accounts regarding the origins of violent riots that shook the region in May. The diplomatic mission aimed at easing tensions in this troubled French Pacific territory.

Over their three-day stay, the prime ministers from Tonga, Cook Islands, and Fiji met a diverse array of community figures, including religious and political leaders. They assessed the damage wrought by unrest that erupted over contentious voting reform, and which French Prime Minister Michel Barnier has now chosen not to pursue.

Amidst a backdrop of extensive violence and the imposition of thousands of police in the capital, Noumea, the visiting leaders called for substantial financial aid to help restore stability. The Pacific Islands Forum underscored the importance of understanding local challenges as pivotal for New Caledonia's recovery and future prosperity.

(With inputs from agencies.)