PM convey condolences to Japan

12 July 2022

The Prime Minister, Honourable Hu’akavameiliku, has sent Tonga’s condolences to the Japanese Government, the family of the late Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe and the people of Japan.

This follows the passing of the late Mr Abe, who was assassinated while speaking at a campaign rally on Friday, July 8, 2022.

Hon Hu’akavameiliku’s condolence message was sent to His Excellency Mr. Kishida Fumio, the Prime Minister of Japan.

“I am deeply shocked and saddened to hear of the tragic passing of Japan’s former Prime Minister, His Late Excellency Mr. Abe Shinzo. He has left a legacy, of which, he was a leader with a great vision and passion for transforming Japan despite many global challenges. His untimely death is felt throughout the world with profound sadness and grief. He will be remembered for his devotion to Japan and its people,” Hon Hu’akavameiliku stated.

“The late former Prime Minister was a rare leader that took a close and personal interest in strengthening Japan’s relations in the Pacific Islands colletively as well as individually. He recognised that forging person-to-person relations was fundamental to creating a genuine and durable relationship with Tonga and the region.

“This was the basis of his bond with Tonga as it begot a true understanding of our aspirations in partnership with Japan. The late former Prime Minister was first and foremost a friend of Tonga before anything else.

“On behalf of the Government and the People of the Kingdom of Tonga, may I offer my deepest condolences to his wife Mrs. Abe Akie and his family. My thoughts and prayers are also with you, your Government, and with the People of Japan in this time of sorrow.”

-ENDS-