Baku:A delegation of public and political activists from Kanaky (New Caledonia) and Maʻohi Nui (French Polynesia, or Tahiti) has arrived in Azerbaijan to show their support for young footballers competing in the FIFA U-15 World Cup and Festival. The event is taking place in Baku from October 22 to 30.

According to Azerbaijan State News Agency, the delegation met with Abbas Abbasov, Executive Director of the Baku Initiative Group (BIG), to discuss the ongoing struggles of the Kanaky and Maʻohi Nui peoples for independence, as well as the preservation of their national identities and cultural heritage. The meeting also explored opportunities for strengthening cooperation between these movements.

The visiting representatives commended the Baku Initiative Group for its efforts to raise international awareness of decolonization issues and to fortify connections between independence movements across various territories. They expressed appreciation towards Azerbaijan for its support and for facilitating platforms to discuss these significant matters on an international scale.

During the meeting, Abbas Abbasov conveyed his best wishes to the young footballers, emphasizing that sports can foster friendship and solidarity among different peoples while enhancing their national identities and cultural heritage. He affirmed that the Baku Initiative Group will persist in supporting global efforts to uphold the fundamental rights of peoples affected by colonialism, including the right to self-determination.

On October 25, supporters organized events at the Athletes' Village and the Hovsan Olympic Sports Complex in Baku, where they cheered for the young players and displayed their cultural traditions through national songs and dances.