ANAKRA
The French president said Thursday that there is an “absolutely unprecedented insurrection movement” in the French overseas territory of New Caledonia, according to media reports.
Emmanuel Macron paid a visit to the overseas territory affected by the unrest in order to establish a dialogue mission following the unrest that has gripped the Pacific archipelago since last week.
During his visit to the central police station in the capital, Nouméa, he observed an “absolutely unprecedented insurrection movement” on the island, French broadcaster BFMTV reported.
“No one saw it coming with such a level of organization and violence,” Macron added.
The president also met with local elected officials and said calm cannot be a “step backwards.”
He explained that it is impossible to reverse the results of the three referendums that led to New Caledonia remaining part of the French overseas territory.
Macron added that the additional forces sent from France to the island will remain “as long as necessary,” perhaps even during the Olympic and Paralympic Games.
He also expressed his desire not to extend the state of emergency while all political authorities demand the lifting of road blocks.
Macron said restoring peace and security in New Caledonia is the “top priority” of his visit to New Caledonia.
“We will also discuss the issues of economic reconstruction, as well as the most sensitive political issues regarding the future of New Caledonia,” the president told reporters at Noumea airport.
“At the end of today (Thursday) decisions will be made and announcements will be made,” he stressed.
*Translated by Daniel Gallego.
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