The junior French minister in charge of overseas territories, Yves Jego, has arrived in Noumea on his first official visit to New Caledonia since succeeding Christian Estrosi in the position.
He has addressed the territory's congress and spoken with President Harold Martin.
Speaking to local radio, Mr Jego noted New Caledonia's collegial system of government which accommodates all parties according to their representation in the legislature.
He has discussed the deepening rifts within the anti-independence camp which is affiliated with France's UMP Party.
Mr Jego called for an improvement in the social dialogue but he says that is not possible if there is no respect for the rules.
