Overview
- Pro-independence Canacs and unionist delegates signed the 13-page accord on July 12 after ten days of negotiations near Paris.
- The deal recognizes New Caledonia as a distinct state sharing French nationality and grants it coordinated control over international relations.
- France retains defense, security, justice and currency powers while transferring broader self-government authorities to New Caledonian institutions.
- The pact requires a French constitutional amendment this autumn, a February 2026 referendum and municipal and provincial elections in March and June 2026.
- Officials will negotiate a joint economic refoundation and a strategic recovery plan for the nickel sector facing a deep financial crisis.