Caledonia debt cancelled

As rancour enveloped the anti-independence movement, the French government made a surprise announcement that it would write off a USD 385 million debt, accumulated in the 1970s and 1980s by the New Caledonian government when it convinced France to underwrite the cost of nickel. This write-off will give future New Caledonian governments more latitude in charting their course. The vision of a less-encumbered government might well provide additional fuel to independence advocates.

This article was written by

Kiery Manassah

FOOD FOR THOUGHT

DP19 – It has often been said that nobody goes hungry in the Pacific, but is this true? Agricultural production has declined in recent decades and it’s not just natural disasters which can impact on food security.
BETTER TRADE FOR THE PACIFIC

DP05 – An update on emerging trade agreements being negotiated by Pacific Island countries and the pressures they face.
NET BENEFITS

DP20 – The coconut wireless is being upgraded. Internet uptake and mobile telephony is increasing in the Pacific, shifting the technological and social landscape.

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IN PICTURES

In a historic presentation, West Papuan leaders representing their newly unified movement, have applied for membership of the MSG. Dan McGarry captures the ceremony in a photo essay.
EYES IN THE SKY

Ben Bohane joins Guam Battalion troops being trained in the use of drones.