- May 4, 2021
- 2,953
Thailand's Constructive Engagement and Open Dialogue on Developments in New Caledonia
Dear Esteemed Representatives of the International Community,
In the spirit of international solidarity and cooperation, the Government of the Republic of Thailand is initiating an Open Dialogue with the world's governments and the international community regarding the evolving situation in New Caledonia. This discourse is aimed at fostering transparency, facilitating constructive communication, and collectively addressing the intricate crisis at hand.
The sequence of events that led to the current state of affairs is as follows:
1. New Caledonia plunged into a state of emergency due to escalating social unrest and acts of violence attributed to the Army for the Independence of New Caledonia (AINC), including the regrettable assassination of the esteemed Mr. Nicolas Sarkozy, then Minister of the Interior, and a targeted assault on a police convoy resulting in several casualties.
2. In an effort to restore law and order and ensure the territorial integrity of New Caledonia, the French Government escalated its presence on the island by dispatching additional National Police and Foreign Legion contingents and establishing a radar station.
3. Concurrently, the French Government declared a state of emergency, bestowing extraordinary powers upon the High Commissioner of the Republic in New Caledonia. This order, among other measures, authorized the use of lethal force against suspected AINC members and instituted internment of the Kanak population, deemed a potential threat given their historical support for independence.
4. As the humanitarian crisis deepened, the French Government graciously consented to Thailand's offer of humanitarian aid to New Caledonia. The agreement stipulated that Thai military forces could escort and safeguard the aid consignments, provided they operated under French command.
5. Our most recent official communication from the French Government and the High Commissioner dates back to July 1st, 2002. Since then, Thai military forces have been under local command.
6. The prolonged absence of French Government representation has left New Caledonia reliant on existing supplies and the provision of Thai humanitarian aid. With the AINC persistently operational and the island effectively cut off from the world, the only group left standing is the AINC. These developments have necessitated Thailand and the local authority's intervention to reestablish the French presence on the island.
The current state of affairs in New Caledonia is as follows:
1. New Caledonia is currently under the safeguarding of Thai forces, operating under the local French commander and their local authority and military officers. The Thai flag is being flown alongside the French tricolors across the country as a symbol of our support, following the unfortunate burning of several French flags due to AINC activities. The Thai Government has been in constant communication with the French Government regarding this flag shortage.
2. There is currently no sign of the High Commissioner nor any other French authority from the mainland in New Caledonia. This predicament raises questions about the official authority in New Caledonia. At present, the Thai forces have refrained from entering or accessing the local French Government building, respecting its sovereignty.
In this context of open dialogue, the Thai Government requests the international community's attention to the following critical points:
1. Recognition of the Current Situation: We urge the international community to recognize the prevailing crisis in New Caledonia. Given the uncertainty surrounding the French Government's status, we encourage nations worldwide to acknowledge the complex and rapidly evolving situation on the ground.
2. Open Lines of Communication: We seek open, transparent lines of communication with the world's governments to better orchestrate coordination efforts, particularly those nations directly or indirectly affected by the stability of the Pacific region.
3. Support for Humanitarian Efforts: We request international assistance in the form of humanitarian aid and support for the beleaguered people of New Caledonia. This includes vital necessities such as food, medical supplies, and other resources indispensable for the welfare of the local populace.
4. Assistance in Peacekeeping: We ask for international cooperation in maintaining peace and order in New Caledonia. The global community's support in terms of material resources or peacekeeping forces would be deeply appreciated.
5. Establishing an International Inquiry: We propose the creation of an international inquiry to probe the circumstances surrounding the sudden disappearance of the French government. This step will ensure all potential geopolitical implications are thoroughly examined and addressed.
6. Respecting Sovereignty: Despite Thailand's crucial role in maintaining stability in New Caledonia, we deeply respect the sovereignty of the region and are committed to collaborating with the international community in restoring legitimate authority.
7. Facilitating Dialogues for Future Resolution: Considering the ongoing crisis, we believe it is paramount to foster dialogues involving various stakeholders, including the local authorities in New Caledonia, the AINC, and the international community, to formulate a resolution that respects the rights and aspirations of the local populace.
In conclusion, the Government of the Republic of Thailand reaffirms its unwavering commitment to peace, order, and the well-being of the people of New Caledonia. We eagerly anticipate the international community's support and collaboration in these challenging times.
Yours sincerely,
Thaksin Shinawatra
Prime Minister of Thailand
Government of the Republic of Thailand
Recipient:
The Government of Australian Xenon, China Axis12, Fiji Mike, Japan EnigmaMage, Oman Motziche, Croatia Danny, Denmark JamieA, Ireland HeadlessSeeker, Italy Nathan, Netherlands Dutchy, Norway Vaka, Poland ManBear, Portugal Bruno, Russia John, Serbia Mutmer, Spain Zak, Sweden Connor, Ukraine GingeOrCringe, United Kingdom Jamie, Vatican City Ender, Canada Alex, Mexico Drivindeath, United States Odinson, Congo Kelly the Mad, and Ethiopia Naio90.