Baku Initiative Group aims to bridge gap in French-Kanak negotiations

The Baku Initiative Group (BIG), known for its commitment to dialogue and peaceful resolutions, has expressed deep concern over the ongoing issue of the Kanaks, a native group in New Caledonia.

In a recent letter to French Minister of Overseas Manuel Valls, BIG Executive Director Abbas Abbasov underscored the unresolved nature of the Kanak question, which has persisted since 1946, Caliber.Az reports.

Abbasov highlighted the French government’s failure to meet its obligations, particularly following the Matignon Agreement of 1988, which aimed to address the Kanak people’s demands for greater autonomy.

"The fact that the issue of the Kanaks has remained unresolved for so long, coupled with the French government's evasion of its commitments, remains a source of serious concern for both the Kanak people and the international non-governmental organization for decolonization, the Baku Initiative Group," Abbasov said in the letter.

Abbasov emphasized that the BIG has proposed a neutral mediation role in the ongoing negotiations between the French government and the Kanaks.

"Taking into account the overwhelming trust that the majority of Kanaks have placed in BIG, as well as our extensive international experience in decolonization, we remain hopeful for a positive response to our proposal," he stated.

He also affirmed that BIG, guided by the norms and principles of international law, would adopt a balanced and fair stance in the negotiations, aiming to foster mutual understanding between both parties.

BIG has long championed peaceful dialogue as the means to resolve contentious international issues and continues to advocate for a diplomatic resolution to the Kanak question.

The Baku Initiative Group, an international non-governmental organization, is dedicated to fostering international partnerships in the fields of decolonization and human rights.

The group firmly and continuously supports the struggles for freedom and independence of those living under colonial and neocolonial rule, committing to solidarity and practical assistance.

Simultaneously, the organization contributes to women empowerment, human rights, environmental, and cultural issues.

By Vafa Guliyeva