Fijian Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka will join a high-level team from the Pacific Islands Forum (PIF) to help resolve the political situation in New Caledonia, following a request from the local authorities.
Rabuka will be joined by the Chair of the PIF, Cook Islands Prime Minister Mark Brown, and Tongan counterpart Hu’akavameiliku Siaosi Sovaleni, who make up the PIF Troika representing the past, current, and incoming chairs.
Brown said, “New Caledonia is a PIF Member and we have a responsibility to take care of our family in a time of need. We wish to support the de-escalation of violence and promote understanding and dialogue between all parties. Our objective is to help all parties resolve this situation as peacefully and expeditiously as possible.”
The PIF secretariat expressed concern over the violence in New Caledonia and formed a special committee to address the situation. They acknowledge New Caledonia as a French territory, requiring approval from the French Government. The Forum has requested support from France and is working with French officials to arrange the mission.
Forum Chair Mark Brown hopes that the mission will take place in August, with a report on its findings to be presented at the Pacific Islands Forum Leaders Meeting in Tonga on August 26-30.
