One of France's foreign territories can become an independent state

About 175,000 Pacific Islands residents have the right to vote. Strongest supporters come from the local population, the Canak.

They have been waiting for the referendum for more than three decades. Polls, however, allow a majority against independence. More than 60% of the New Caledonians believe the island will remain with France. The result is expected to take place during Sunday evening, adds Rtv21.tv.tv.

“ (New Caledonia) It is also known as New Scotland, was taken from Paris in 1853 and was originally used as an island for convicts.

In total, more than 280,000 people live today, including many immigrants from other Pacific states.

Currently, the islands receive about one billion euros annually from Paris. Immigrants fear potential riots.

The referendum was originally scheduled to be held in 1998, but was postponed several times. The New Caledonia is not part of the European Union's territory, it does not pay with the euro, but with francs.

In European elections, residents of the island are eligible to vote. The EU also finances the island annually.

The New Caledonia was on the verge of civil war a few months ago, while the situation has largely calmed down.

Some “Caldoches” are called immigrants from Europe worried that they doubt whether the referendum result is announced with no new riots Sunday. France has increased the number of security forces Monday, Prime Minister Édouard Philippe is expected to visit the capital, Nouméa, if the new caledonians vote no Sunday, it does not mean that the last word on independence has already been spoken.

After agreements with Paris, there may be two more referenda by 2024. The New Caledonia is the island near Australia and other Pacific islands.