In a surprising move, French President Emmanuel Macron has decided to make a trip to New Caledonia, the French Pacific territory that has been engulfed in days of deadly unrest. The decision comes as six people, including two gendarmes, have been killed, and hundreds of others injured in armed clashes, looting, and arson.

The archipelago of New Caledonia, located east of Australia, has witnessed long-standing tensions between the indigenous Kanaks and descendants of colonizers who want to remain part of France. The recent violence was triggered by debates in the French legislature about amending voter lists in New Caledonia, causing concern among opponents that it would marginalize the Kanaks further.

Macron's visit, scheduled for Thursday, aims to meet with political, business, civic, and youth leaders to restore dialogue and seek a comprehensive political agreement. The French president will be accompanied by Interior Minister Gerald Darmanin, as well as the ministers for defense and for France's overseas territories.

During this visit, Macron and his ministers will witness firsthand the destruction caused by the unrest, with parts of the capital, Nouméa, turning into no-go zones, buildings torched, shops pillaged, and barricades erected. The French authorities have declared a state of emergency and deployed additional security forces to regain control.

Efforts to address France's colonial past have largely focused on Africa, but the violence in New Caledonia has reignited discussions on the issue. Macron's trip to the territory will provide an opportunity for him and his ministers to assess the situation and understand the grievances that have fueled the unrest.

In the midst of the turmoil, French authorities are also working to restore normalcy by clearing barricades and burned vehicles on the highway to Nouméa's airport. This development offers hope for stranded travelers, and neighboring countries, such as Australia and New Zealand, have sent planes to assist with repatriation efforts.

Australia, with 300 of its citizens in New Caledonia, has secured clearance for two evacuation flights and is working on additional ones. New Zealand, on the other hand, is initiating an evacuation effort for approximately 50 of its citizens. Both countries are coordinating with France to ensure the safe return of their citizens.

As Macron undertakes this unexpected trip to New Caledonia, the world watches closely to see how he will address the ongoing conflict and work towards a resolution that respects the aspirations of the indigenous Kanaks while maintaining the ties between the archipelago and France.