18 August 2022

Nuku’alofa – The Honorable Prime Minister today held bilateral talks with the visiting Foreign and Trade Minister of New Zealand, Hon Nanaia Mahuta at the Cabinet Chambers here at the St George Building.

After welcoming the Hon Minister, the Hon Hu’akavameiliku then introduced His Royal Highness Crown Prince Tupouto’a ‘Ulukalala before an official photo shoot in front of the giant Tongan Coat of Arms at the Cabinet Chambers’ foyer.

The bilateral that followed discussed the strengthening of ties between the two countries, development assistance and trade opportunities.

It also gave the opportunity for the Hon Hu’akavameiliku to thank Hon Mahuta and her delegation for New Zealand’s continued assistance to Tonga, especially in the last six months, since the January 15 Hunga-Tonga-Hunga- Ha’apai volcano and tsunami on January 15, 2022.

His Royal Highness the Crown Prince also attended the bilateral meeting along with the Minister for Foreign Affairs, Hon Fekitamoeloa Katoa ‘Utoikamanu, the Minister for Trade and Development, Hon Dr Viliami Lasike Latu and senior government officials.

At the Press Conference after the bi-lateral meeting, both the Hon Hu’akavameiliku and Hon Mahuta stressed the importance of continuing the partnership between the two countries and the working relationship built over the years.