Denise Campbell Bauer, is in Noumea from Tuesday 24 October. She will then travel to Papeete. This is the first trip by an American ambassador to the two territories.

According to the American ambassador, “New Caledonia and French Polynesia are at the centre of many vital issues. France and the United States are allies with unbreakable ties. We work together around the world to preserve our collective security and prosperity. The year 2024 represents a very important milestone in the Franco-American partnership. Together, we will honour the brave men and women, including hundreds of volunteers from New Caledonia and French Polynesia, who fought in the Second World War in the face of oppression. They fought for freedom, democracy and the Liberation of France.

A packed programme

In Noumea, the US ambassador will meet representatives of the armed forces. Denise Campbell Bauer will also hold talks with Louis Lefranc, the French High Commissioner (who represents French President Emmanuel Macron in New Caledonia). Meetings are also planned with the presidents of the three provinces and with local elected representatives. The ambassador will be meeting professors, students and administrators from the University of New Caledonia and the University of French Polynesia to “highlight exchange and training programmes”.

A close friend of Barack Obama

During her trip, the Ambassador will also be meeting business leaders, representatives of the Chambers of Commerce and members of the business community “to discuss strengthening trade links. Sustainable growth and green energy. The Ambassador will also meet with representatives of American companies in New Caledonia and French Polynesia. After a career as a journalist with American and Australian television stations, she worked for the American Red Cross. Appointed US ambassador by President Joe Biden, she took up her post in February 2022. Denise Campbell Bauer is a member of the Democratic Party. She is close to former President Barack Obama.
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