French President Emmanuel Macron is scheduled to visit New Caledonia today, following a week of violent riots that left six people dead and hundreds injured in the French overseas territory.
The upheaval was triggered by proposed changes to the electoral system, leading to widespread looting, arson of shops and businesses, and the torching of vehicles along with the erection of road barricades. A state of emergency and a curfew are still in effect, supported by military reinforcements.
The French government spokesperson, Prisca Thevenot, announced post-cabinet meeting that President Macron is heading to the Pacific island to initiate a specific mission, though details of the mission were not disclosed.
While there have been suggestions to appoint experienced politicians as mediators, Thevenot did not confirm any such plans.
She emphasized that restoring peace and order remains a top priority, noting some improvement in the situation but acknowledging that further efforts are necessary.
Amid the crisis, Australia and New Zealand have undertaken evacuation flights for some of the estimated 3,000 tourists stranded in New Caledonia, where commercial flights have been halted at the main airport.
