Pacific's New Caledonia votes 'no' to independence from France
- 6 years ago
Voters in the Pacific territory of New Caledonia have rejected a bid for independence from France.
Final results show that 56.4 percent chose to remain a part of France, while 43.6 percent voted to leave.
The turnout was 81 percent.
The result was tighter than some polls had predicted which could encourage nationalists to try for a new referendum in coming years.
Two more referendums on independence can be held before 2022.
French President Emmanuel Macron described Sunday's result as a historic step that showed great pride for the French republic.
Final results show that 56.4 percent chose to remain a part of France, while 43.6 percent voted to leave.
The turnout was 81 percent.
The result was tighter than some polls had predicted which could encourage nationalists to try for a new referendum in coming years.
Two more referendums on independence can be held before 2022.
French President Emmanuel Macron described Sunday's result as a historic step that showed great pride for the French republic.