New Caledonian independence

While conceding its French territories deserve more autonomy, France says ’the interference of a foreign power ... is a matter for concern.’

The French Government has agreed to a Pacific Islands Forum delegation visiting its troubled territory of New Caledonia, after initial problems agreeing terms.

Pacific leaders had planned a fact-finding mission to New Caledonia but say they were obstructed by France, which the French Ambassador denies.

A peaceful resolution of New Caledonia’s quest for independence may have been sacrificed to shore up votes for Emmanuel Macron’s party in a snap election.

France has sent both ballots for the European Union elections and a new armoured vehicle, with tear gas and machine gun capability, to troubled New Caledonia.

The visit of French President Emmanuel Macron—and his promise to put on hold controversial viting reforms—seems to have done little to quell the conflict.

Both the Australian and New Zealand Defence Force are on their way to New Caledonia to rescue people trapped there by days of bloody violence.

‘The Air Force have been on stand-by for the last 48 hours ... but the airport is closed,’ the Anthony Albanese said.

Foreign Affairs Minister Penny Wong says the defence force is ’ready to fly' once local authorities advise it is safe to use the airport.

‘It’s desolation, it’s chaos—it’s frightening.’

Socialist-led pro-independence group said it was willing to work with government towards an agreement, only if it furthered their goal of emancipation.

Demonstrations, marches, arson, a prison kidnapping and confrontations with security forces have spread throughout the French Pacific territory.