The Chinese Ambassador to Tonga, HE Mr Hu Yeshun on February 28 praised the Women's Affairs Division of the Ministry of Education for their work on the social status of Tongan women.

He said that his government was happy to assist the Women's Affairs Division in their work. He presented the CEO of the Ministry of Education, Women's Affairs and Culture, Dr Vililami Fukofuka with a cheque for $1,000 pa'anga, his contribution to the coming celebration of the International Women's Day by Tongan women on March 8. The theme for this year's celebration is "Ending Impunity for Violence against Women".

'Unaloto Vaka a Senior Assistant Secretary with the Ministry of Education said that the money will be used to finance the various events that will take place during the International Women's day celebration, which started yesterday with an essay competition by secondary schools' students.

Other events leading up to the March 8 celebration, include a drama competition for the Tonga National Youth Congress TNYC, and a panel discussion program to be broadcasted by Radio Tonga.

The March 8 celebration will be officially opened by HM Queen Halaevalu Mata'aho. Following the opening ceremony the queen will inspect 20 stalls where women from throughout Tongatapu will display their works. The highlight of the day's celebration will be a handicraft and a floral arrangement competition.