At a meeting in Nuku’alofa, Tonga on August 30, 2024, the Prime Ministers of the Cook Islands, Solomon Islands, and Tonga, along with the Secretary-General of the Pacific Islands Forum (PIF), discussed plans for a high-level mission to New Caledonia. This mission, focused on observation and dialogue, is aimed at addressing the crisis in New Caledonia and is supported by both the PIF and the local government. The mission is expected to take place in mid-October and will be led by a “troika+” consisting of the Prime Ministers of the Cook Islands, Solomon Islands, and Tonga, accompanied by the Prime Minister of Fiji.
The situation in New Caledonia highlights the complex relationship between the autonomous New Caledonian government and the French state, represented by the High Commissioner. Both parties are protective of their respective roles in external relations, leading to potential challenges in executing the mission to New Caledonia. While New Caledonia has been a full member of the PIF since 2016, it remains a French territory, creating a delicate balance of power. The involvement of foreign leaders on French soil further complicates matters, with France maintaining control over such decisions.
The President of the New Caledonian government critiqued the French diplomatic approach towards the Pacific region, emphasizing the importance of recognizing New Caledonia’s legitimacy within the PIF. The violent crisis that began in May has brought the issue of sovereignty to the forefront, with some PIF member states advocating for full independence for New Caledonia. The differing viewpoints within the PIF make it challenging for France to convey a clear message in this context, especially given the recent escalation of tensions in the region.
The evolving dynamics in the Pacific region underscore the need for France to engage more effectively with its neighbors and address the concerns of both independent and non-independent Pacific states. The growing focus on the Indo-Pacific strategy of France has raised questions among PIF member states about its intentions and potential impacts on regional stability. Additionally, Australia’s stance on the New Caledonia issue adds another layer of complexity, as they balance their relationship with France while navigating regional sensitivities regarding militarization.
As New Caledonia continues to grapple with unrest and calls for independence, the need for diplomatic dialogue and engagement with regional partners becomes increasingly important. The upcoming mission to New Caledonia presents an opportunity for France to demonstrate transparency and cooperation with the PIF, but challenges remain in navigating the delicate balance of power between the autonomous New Caledonian government and the French state. This ongoing situation highlights the broader implications of sovereignty and external relations in the Pacific region, with implications for regional stability and cooperation.
