“France wants to assimilate our culture so that we forget our identity. France's imperialist policy has a negative impact on the economy of Réunion. For us, independence means a better future,” said Romain Catambara, Chairman of the "Ka Ubuntu" independence movement, as he addressed the conference "The Independence of Réunion: A Look at France's Colonial Legacy and The Island’s Path to Sovereignty" held in Baku.
He noted that, along with the economic difficulties prevailing on the Réunion Island, it is also necessary to stress the tension between various indigenous communities.
“French officials are trying to undermine solidarity among the island's population and prevent liberation movements by accusing the people of Mayotte in increase of the organized crime, environmental damage, and the deterioration of the social situation in Réunion,” Romain Catambara added.