Tonga and the Pacific Community (SPC) have reaffirmed their commitment to strengthen cooperation on national development priorities and improve support for the wellbeing of the Tongan people.

Prime Minister Lord Fakafanua met with SPC Director-General, Dr Paula Vivili during his first official visit to Tonga since taking up his position.

The meeting focused on strengthening cooperation between Tonga and SPC and advancing shared priorities in areas critical to Tonga’s development.

SPC provides Tonga with technical expertise, research, data, training and capacity building in areas including health, education, agriculture, fisheries, climate change, disaster resilience and sustainable development.

During the visit, Dr Vivili also met with Crown Prince Tupoutoʻa ʻUlukalala and the Minister for His Majesty’s Diplomatic Services to discuss Tonga’s development priorities and opportunities to strengthen SPC’s support and partnership with the Kingdom.

The visit also included a step to strengthen regional health cooperation, with SPC and the World Health Organisation signing a Memorandum of Understanding to deepen collaboration and support the delivery of essential health services across the Pacific.

Since taking office, Dr Vivili has prioritised direct engagement with SPC members to understand their priorities and ensure the organisation’s work remains responsive to the needs of Pacific people.

“The Pacific Community is an important regional partner for Tonga,” the Prime Minister’s Office said, highlighting SPC’s role in providing technical support and building national capacity.

Tonga has been a member of SPC since 1983. The visit is part of Dr Vivili’s engagement with SPC members as he seeks to strengthen partnerships and ensure the organisation’s support reflects national priorities across the Pacific.

Source: Pacnews