King Tupou VI thankful CoViD-19 has not arrived [1]
Thursday, May 7, 2020 - 17:54. Updated on Thursday, May 7, 2020 - 17:59.
By Pesi Fonua
Appearing on-screen through a livestream, HM King Tupou VI opened the Tongan Parliamentary session for 2020-21 this morning and expressed his sincere gratitude that the CoViD-19 had not reach Tonga. He was thankful for the people’s acceptance of restrictions that had been put in place, all for the sake of protecting our lives.
The King was speaking from the Royal Palace in Nuku'alofa via a Zoom connection to Parliament House, where only Members and representatives of the media were allowed to enter in person during national restrictions for CoViD-19 prevention.
He said that while Tonga was trying to counter the CoViD-19, Severe Tropical Cyclone Harold arrived and destroyed some of the holiday resorts in the Western Tongatapu, Ha’apai and ‘Eua. It demolished harbours and some of the villages by the seashore. These are the issues we are facing today.
He warned that future cyclones could be more devastating.
“It cannot be deferred or delayed, they are getting more powerful and happen more frequently. Only countries with a population on alert will be able to survive these disasters. Tonga is only a small country but our traditions remind us of how our ancestors were able to counter these phenomena,” he said.
“Looking into the future, it is clear that there has been damage to the environment which could impact our food sources, and there could be famines. We will still be facing viruses and natural disasters; people who can counter these disasters are those who are not lazy, and fall asleep over their working agendas. Their families trust them, they are fearless, and can cope with life, if there is a cyclone, a power cut, no running water, and there is no fuel, but their lanterns havebeen filled as it was done by the Wise Nuns.
“Looking into the future the House has a lot of work to do. There is a need for unity, and to work in cooperation for the advancement of the people and the development of the country,” King Tupou VI said.
“We accept with sincerity the assistance from foreign countries to protect the lives of the workers and the people, enabling us to counter Climate Change and the impact of CoViD-19 on our lives, our economy, travelling, tourism, sports, businesses, communication and others.”
He wished Members of Parliament all the best for this year’s working agenda.