New Caledonia's main anti-independence party has again called for unity among local politicians by adopting a formal declaration about the territory's heritage.
Philippe Gomes Photo: AFP
The call was made at a large weekend party meeting in Noumea as preparations continue for next year's independence referendum.
The party's leader Philippe Gomes said there was a new drive, pointing to the agreement reached at the beginning of the month on the make-up of the restricted electoral roll for the plebiscite.
Just over a week ago, Mr Gomes already called for the adoption of such a declaration, which would highlight the degree of self-rule already attained.
He has also pointed to the impasse in efforts to form a government, which has lasted for nearly three months.
This comes as New Caledonia is getting ready for a visit by the French prime minister Edouard Philippe at the end of this week.