One year following devastating riots in Noumea, newly elected president Alcide Ponga, an indigenous Kanak and opponent of independence, faces enormous challenges. These include addressing deep divisions over New Caledonia's future and the independence question from France. Despite his unexpected presidency, Ponga is committed to economic recovery, dialogue on independence, and strengthening regional partnerships with Australia and New Zealand. The riots, which left 14 dead and significantly damaged the economy, highlighted the urgency for Ponga to lead constructive conversations to rebuild trust and revive critical industries like nickel.
"We need to find a way out. We haven't spoken to each other for years, since the [independence] referendums. Now we're talking again. Everyone is aware of what's at stake," Ponga said.
"Being president wasn't necessarily what I wanted. But I was appointed to solve problems. I take them one by one, without any preconceptions," said the native of Kouaoua.
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