The Government of Tonga today thanked the 'Pacific Family', members of a joint military 'Tonga Assist Operation' for their help over the past six-weeks, in the aftermath of the volcanic eruption and tsunamis on January 15.

Deputy Prime Minister Hon. Poasi Tei officiated at a farewell ceremony for members for the Australia Defense Force (ADF), Republic of Fiji Military Forces (RFMF) and the France New Caledonia military team, at Vuna Wharf. The three partnered in the ‘Tonga Assist’ operation in response to Government’s request for assistance.

“Today the Government and the people of Tonga would like to say to you all malo ‘aupito, thank you, vinaka vakalevu and merci beaucoup, for the support you all had rendered to the people of Tonga."

He said Government’s recovery and rebuilding program had started with home reconstruction on Tongatapu, and was now focused on moving from immediate response to recovery and rebuilding, critically on rebuilding for better resilience.

The operation included surveying affected areas, assisting with airlifting and carrying supplies to the islands and cleaning up islands and villages that were affected.

"Tonga is ranked the third most country at risk to climate change which presents Tonga with a daily challenge, but the partnership and assistance given by our friends in our time of need makes this reality an acceptable one to live with."

Joint operation

His Majesty’s Armed Forces Chief of Staff Brigadier Lord Fielakepa also thanked the ‘Pacific Family’ for the joint partnership in the assistance carried out here in Tonga.

Members of the RFMF returns to Fiji this evening on the Royal Australian Air Force, while the HMAS Canberra returns to Australia on Friday, March 18. The defence ship was one of the three Australian naval vessels that was part of the operation.