Media Release

November 18, 2008

Australia Strengthens Relations with France and New Caledonia in the Pacific

Following his first visit to New Caledonia, Australian Parliamentary Secretary for Pacific Island Affairs, the Hon Duncan Kerr SC MP, has encouraged the French Pacific collectivities to further strengthen their engagement in the region.

“I would like to see New Caledonia and the other regional French collectivities, French Polynesia and Wallis and Futuna, take on a greater role in our region,” Mr Kerr said. “There is considerable room for greater engagement and economic and cultural exchange between these islands of the Pacific that share a French speaking background and their regional partners, including Australia.”

“In discussions during my visit, I was keen to reinforce Australia’s strong appreciation for the role of France in the region in supporting the region’s security and development, and in particular in promoting a democratic process through the Noumea Accord which will enable New Caledonia to determine an appropriate structure for its own future.

“I was impressed by the warm welcome of my hosts and particularly by their commitment to the implementation of the Noumea Accord and to working together to build a common future.

“During my visit, I was also heartened by the commitment of all parties to furthering New Caledonia’s engagement with the Pacific region, the region’s institutions and all the countries of the region.

“I am convinced, as I know are the French State and many in New Caledonia, that genuine integration is key to a stable and prosperous future here and for the other French collectivities.”

The Australian Government is committed to supporting efforts towards New Caledonia’s greater integration regionally, including by furthering links in areas including culture, education, sport, technical expertise, health, agriculture, the environment and the economy.

“In the commercial sector, I believe that there are mutual benefits to producers and consumers from New Caledonia and Australia, and from the other countries of the Pacific region, of working together to achieve freer markets and greater economic integration. We are keen to work with the New Caledonian government towards that goal.

“In my role as Parliamentary Secretary for Pacific Island Affairs in Australia, I look forward to working closely with New Caledonia as it realises its future.”

During his trip Mr Kerr visited the future nickel processing facility at Koniambo in the Northern Province and the nickel smelter of Goro in the south of New Caledonia which is close to completion.

Media inquiries: Mr Kerr's office - 02 6277 4991 - Departmental Media Liaison 02 6261 1555

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