French Senate Report Warns of ‘Foreign Interference’ in the Pacific

While conceding its French territories deserve more autonomy, France says ’the interference of a foreign power ... is a matter for concern.’

From front to back: the flags of French Polynesia, France, and the Marquesas Islands are seen from the bleachers ahead of the arrival of France's President Emmanuel Macron at the Hiva Oa stadium in the Marquesas Islands, French Polynesia on July 25, 2021. Ludovic Marin/AFP via Getty Images

In an extensive 111-page report on its Pacific territories, the French Senate has warned of “the interference of a foreign power” in the region, calling it “a matter for concern. It must be taken seriously.”

It also covers a range of issues, from changes to territories’ powers under their current autonomy status to the growing problems associated with the consumption of drugs, including methamphetamine.