Photos by Linny Folau, Pesi Fonua and Peter Poulsen

King Tupou VI opened the new multi-million Chinese funded "St George Government Building" on a rainy Friday morning, September 1, with Prime Minister Hon ‘Akilisi Pohiva on hand, welcoming him to the event.

The $28 million pa'anga project was completed five-years after it was first agreed to in 2012.

The building with a floor area of around 5745m2, will house the Prime Minister’s Office, Ministry of Finance and National Planning, Ministry of Foreign Affairs, and the Cabinet Chambers, which have been fully equipped.

PM Pohiva in his address said the building design theme was to become a landmark, a monument and a national icon for Tonga.

“I’m deeply honoured on behalf of Their Majesties King Tupou VI and Queen Nanasipau’u and the people of Tonga to convey our utmost gratitude and humble appreciation to the Government of the People’s Republic of China for your unconditional assistance.”

He said in March 2012, the People’s Republic of China and the Kingdom of Tonga signed official letters to confirm the agreement to construct this massive land mark in the centre of the capital.

On November 19, 2014 the Government of Tonga and Shanghai Construction Group Company Ltd signed the agreement to carry out the construction work, with the groundbreaking in November 2015 by King Tupou VI.

This year the work was completed on May 17, and on June 22 the keys of the building were handed over to government.

The King unveiled a commemorative plaque, cut a ribbon and officially opened the doors before touring the building with Queen Nanasipau'u.

As King Tupou VI was leaving the event he shook hands with the Prime Minister.

China relations

The Chinese Ambassador HE Mr Wang Baodong in his address said the construction of the St George Government Building has gained great support and promotion of the Royal Family and government.

He said the project was first proposed and named by the late King George Tupou V.

“Thanks to joint efforts we are here today witnessing the birth of a new landmark of Tongatapu, a new symbol of the Tongan Government function and public service, and a new achievement of China-Tonga cooperation.”

He said the Chinese Government attached great importance to China and Tonga relations and the Chinese people valued the friendship with the Tongan people.

“As we are ushering in the 20^th anniversary of the establishment of our diplomatic ties next year, we are more than confident in greater progress in our friendly and cooperative relationship, which not only confirms with the bilateral interest of our two countries and people but also serve the peace, stability and prosperity of the Pacific Island region at large.”

The opening was attended by Cabinet Ministers, government officials and invited guests who also toured the building.