Reports from New Caledonia say the French broadcasting authorities are considering bids for two new local television stations planned to be launched next year.
According to Noumea's daily paper, the proposed channels are being backed by traditionally rival political sides.
One is NCTV which has the support of the northern province led by the pro-independence politician, Paul Neaoutyine.
The other is NC9 whose creation has been supported by the territory's veteran anti-independence politician, Pierre Frogier.
Paris has to determine whether the projects suit the territory's political landscape.
