Sydney (AP) - The Australian and New Zealand governments have taken swift action to evacuate their nationals from New Caledonia, a French Pacific archipelago engulfed in violent unrest. Australian Foreign Minister confirmed that Australia has been granted clearance for two evacuation flights to bring citizens and tourists back home. Additional flights are also being arranged to ensure the safety of all Australians in the region.
New Zealand has also joined the evacuation efforts by dispatching a plane to retrieve its citizens from Noumea, the capital of New Caledonia. This initial evacuation is part of a series of planned flights to repatriate New Zealanders affected by the recent violence in the region.
The situation in New Caledonia has escalated following controversial electoral reforms enacted in Paris, leading to widespread unrest. At least six individuals have lost their lives, and hundreds have sustained injuries as a result of the violence that erupted last week. The violence has particularly impacted the indigenous population of New Caledonia, who have long sought independence from France.
The governments of Australia and New Zealand are prioritizing the safety and well-being of their citizens in New Caledonia, ensuring that they are promptly evacuated from the volatile situation. Both countries are working diligently to coordinate further evacuation efforts and provide necessary support to those affected by the ongoing unrest.
