This mission marked the very first official visit of the Administrator to Arutua and reflects the desire to bring State services closer to the local population.

The DRCL took the opportunity to test a mobile kit enabling the issuance of biometric passports. Thanks to this tool, fifteen residents were able to complete their applications on site, thus avoiding long and costly trips to Papeete.

Arutua also made history by hosting, for the first time in the Tuamotu, the Journée Défense et Citoyenneté (JDC, formerly JAPD) in a participatory and modern format designed to better engage young people in civic life.

The GSMA presented its training programs to the local youth. The meeting revealed a genuine interest, although somewhat tempered by persistent lack of awareness regarding the administrative procedures necessary for registration.

In total, nearly forty young people were able to complete their JDC directly on their atoll, thus avoiding a trip to Tahiti — a step forward in territorial inclusion.

The delegation also visited municipal infrastructure, ongoing construction projects, and several pearl farms. These exchanges with pearl farmers highlighted the sector’s difficulties while underlining its central role in the local economy.

To face the pearl industry crisis, the atolls are betting on diversification. In Arutua, a coconut grove regeneration nursery is under development, while in Kaukura, an organic vanilla plantation illustrates ongoing efforts to innovate in agriculture.