Macron Visits New Caledonia Amid Unrest and Evacuations
French President Emmanuel Macron has decided to lift the state of emergency in New Caledonia to facilitate political dialogue following violent unrest. The move aims to enable meetings between pro-independence groups and local leaders. Despite lifting the emergency, curfews and bans on public gatherings, transport, and alcohol sales will remain. The unrest, which began over proposed electoral reforms, has resulted in seven deaths and numerous injuries. Macron's decision follows his visit to the territory and ongoing efforts to negotiate with both pro-independence and pro-Paris factions.