Prime Minister Hon. James Marape today commended France President His Excellency Emmanuel Macron on his leadership in considering another referendum for New Caledonia.

PM Marape said he was happy that President Macron has indicated his government’s willingness to consider another referendum for the French territory.

During the France-Pacific Summit at the Palais de la Prefecture today, Pacific Island leaders, including Prime Minister Marape, expressed concern over issues arising in New Caledonia, particularly the issues of last year.

“Papua New Guinea was among the high-level delegation representatives from the Pacific who advocated for the French Government to give fair consideration to issues that are occurring in New Caledonia,” said PM Marape.

He, therefore, welcomed President Macron’s consideration of the fourth referendum for New Caledonia.

“I welcome the indication by President Macron of considering another referendum for New Caledonia, in fact, the fourth referendum. I praise his leadership, openness, honesty, and genuineness to the way he relates to the Pacific.

“I think it’s a major milestone. I want to commend the French Government under his leadership for giving its full assurance to look at a better relationship with French territories in the Pacific,” he said.

New Caledonia, still a territory of France, continues to face complex political issues stemming from the ongoing debate over its future status. The primary issue is the desire for independence from France, which is supported by the indigenous Kanak population, and France’s desire to continue maintaining its territorial control.