France, Jan. 13 -- Announced in December by Macron, this meeting aimed to "provide clarifications" on the so-called Bougival Agreement, which notably provides for the creation of a New Caledonian state enshrined in the French Constitution.

Approved in July by the entire anti-independence camp, it was nevertheless rejected by the Kanak and Socialist National Liberation Front (FLNKS), which remains the main pro-independence movement in the territory located 17,000 km from mainland France.

"Paris is deaf and only understands the power dynamic, which is why we will not attend the meeting," FLNKS President Christian Tein told a press conference in Noumea.

France's new overseas minister due in New Caledonia to revive dialogue

"The governmen...