French Polynesia's anti-independence partner in the coalition government has stated that in the current situation the French presence is the safest element for a sustainable economic development .
The To Tatou Aia coalition responded after the official launch of unprecedented French-sponsored talks to debate the future of France's overseas territories.
The territory's president, Oscar Temaru, opened the months-long process by urging for a path to be followed that will lead to full sovereignty.
But the To Tatou Aia says in the light of the global economic crisis, the population fears for its future and the ties to France do matter.
It says in the territory's daily life, it is France that supplies money and provides education for the young.
