The provision of key equipment from Japan worth more than $2 million pa’anga was handed over to three Ministries today, June 21, aimed to improve services to the people of Tonga.

Funded through Japan's Non-Project Grant Aid, Japanese Ambassador HE Mr Yukio Numata handed over the first High Performance Liquid Chromatography instrument to the Ministry of Agriculture, Food, Forests and Fisheries, worth $450,000 pa'anga.

"This instrument will identify and quantify the amount of pesticides present in food such as vegetables..," he said

He also gave out two endoscope systems worth about $1.64 million pa’anga to the Ministry of Health, received by the  Director of Health Siale 'Akau'ola. 

While, three high-pressure washers valued at around $130,000 pa’anga was handed over to the Ministry of Lands and Natural Resources, received by Rosamind Bing CEO.

The Ambassador said this is a symbol of Tonga and Japan's cordial relations through this project signed in 2013, 2014 and 2015 for the provision of equipment.

He was pleased to handover the High Performance Liquid Chromatography (HPLC).

"This equipment will support the government’s effort to guarantee food safety and quality diet for the people in accordance with the National Food Act."

Hon. Semisi Fakahau, the Minister for Agriculture acknowledged Japan's continuous assistance, equipping ministries with these necessary equipment to advance the service for the people of Tonga.

"I thank you the people and Government of Japan for your generosity in providing this invaluable assitance, when and to where it is most needed."