Police in New Caledonia have used tear gas to disperse about 200 demonstrators outside a government building, defying an order by the French high commissioner to keep the area clear.
The move was linked to the arrival of the junior French overseas territories minister, Marie-Luce Penchard, who is on her first visit to the territory since assuming her role in government.
The crowd was made of supporters of the USTKE union which has been campaigning for the release of its jailed leader, Gerard Jodar.
The unionists say they held a peaceful rally when the police intervened.
Mrs Penchard has declined to comment on the court ruling against Mr Jodar, who was convicted over his role during the May unrest at the city's domestic airport.
The incident comes ahead of Friday's summit France has scheduled with Pacific leaders.
However, there is yet to be an announcement who will chair the event after the French foreign ministry was unable to confirm Bernard Kouchner's attendance.
