New Caledonia archipelago votes on independence from France

NOUMEA, New Caledonia (AP) — Voters in the French archipelago of New Caledonia in the South Pacific are deciding whether they want independence from France. The referendum marks a milestone in a three-decade decolonization effort. More than 180,000 voters on Sunday are invited to answer the question : “Do you want New Caledonia to gain full sovereignty and become independent?” Polling stations opened at 8 a.m. and will close 10 hours later. Results are expected later Sunday. If