The Minister for Health, Hon. Dr 'Ana 'Akau'ola, reaffirmed Tonga's commitment to inclusive and sustainable social development at the Second World Summit for Social Development, this week, 5 November, in Doha, Qatar.
In her national statement, Minister 'Akau'ola highlighted Tonga's alignment with the summit's theme, 'Strengthening the three pillars of social development: poverty eradication, full and productive employment and decent work for all, and social inclusion.'
She said, "Tonga stands united with the global community in advancing equality, opportunity, and social justice — ensuring that no one is left behind."
She noted that Tonga’s upcoming Third Strategic Development Framework (2025–2035) will serve as a blueprint for achieving these goals, focusing on empowering people and communities, reducing poverty, and expanding access to health, education, and social protection.
"One of its key national outcomes 'Empowering People and Communities' underscores our commitment to ensuring that Tonga’s most vulnerable groups experience improved well-being through equitable access to quality education, healthcare, and social protection, supported by effective policies and targeted assistance," she said.
She also drew attention to the link between social development and climate resilience, noting that as one of the world’s most vulnerable nations, Tonga continues to face the compounded impacts of climate change on livelihoods, health, and the economy.
She called for sustained international partnerships, technical cooperation, and financing to support small island developing states in building resilient and inclusive societies.
"Tonga continues to call on our development partners and all relevant stakeholders to honor their financial and technical commitments. Sustained support will allow vulnerable developing states like our Island Kingdom to make bold investments in health, education, and social protection systems — building the foundations for lasting resilience and inclusive growth."
Minister 'Akau'ola concluded by reaffirming Tonga’s unwavering support for the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development and urged the global community to renew its commitment to people- centered progress, ensuring that no nation and no person is left behind.
