France announces State of New Caledonia, except with a twist
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The French prime minister praises the agreement as establishing a "unique organization" that is now enshrined in France's constitution.
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Indigenous Kanaks wave independent flags during the 171st anniversary of France's takeover of the Pacific Archipelago in Noumea, New Caledonia, on September 24, 2024 (AP)
Rival political factions in New Caledonia reached a historic agreement on Saturday morning, outlining the creation of a new state with increased autonomy, yet with a twist, that it is not fully independent from France.
Following negotiations in Bougival, just outside Paris, the pro- and anti-independence groups reached a compromise to create the state of New Caledonia, following last year's violent unrest.
French Prime Minister François Bayrou described the agreement as "of historic significance" in a post on X, emphasizing that it would establish a "unique organization" for New Caledonia, enshrined within France’s "national framework" and recognized in the French constitution.
Long quest for independence compromised by continued French touch
The Pacific archipelago and former French penal colony has long been divided over its future, with French descendants advocating for continued French rule, while the Indigenous Kanak people have pushed for self-determination.
Tensions flared last May when the French parliament proposed an electoral change that would diminish the political influence of pro-independence groups.
According to Les Nouvelles Calédoniennes, the newly announced deal, whose full text had not been released at the time, would establish a New Caledonian nationality, allowing islanders to hold dual nationality. It also includes a transfer of authority over international relations to New Caledonia.
Referendum, French parliament approval pending
The deal now faces a referendum in New Caledonia and must also be approved by the French parliament.
French loyalist groups emphasized that the agreement involved "concessions from all parties" and would create a New Caledonian nationality that remains "inseparable from French nationality." They also pointed out France's commitments to support New Caledonia's economic development, particularly in the vital nickel sector.
French Justice Minister Gérald Darmanin hailed the deal on X, stating it would grant New Caledonia "expanded powers, an unfrozen electorate, and potential international recognition."
Sonia Backes, leader of the loyalist-majority South Province of New Caledonia, remarked, “This New Caledonian nationality takes nothing away from us: neither from our belonging to the Republic nor from our French nationality.”
