Pacific

Political parties in French Polynesia mark ties with France

10:36 am on 30 June 2011

Political parties in favour of French Polynesia's autonomy will today gather in Papeete to mark its ties with France.

The leaders of the Tahoeraa Huiraatira, To Tatou Aia and the Ia Ora Te Fenua will address this morning's gathering.

The pro-independence camp will mark June the 29th as a day of mourning and the loss of independence as on this day in 1880 the Tahitian king signed a deal with France which annexed the kingdom.

A march and prayers are planned in Faaa tonight.