Heads of Diplomatic Missions from all Commonwealth countries, including Tonga, joined Royal guests and representatives at Westminster Abbey to celebrate the Commonwealth Family earlier this week

The Commonwealth, headed by HM Queen Elizabeth II, is an association of 54 member states with a combined population of 2.4 billion and spanning Africa, Asia, the Americas, Europe and the Pacific.

On March 14, the Commonwealth Day Service showcased the significance of Commonwealth solidarity, said Tonga's High Commissioner in London, H.E. The Hon. Titilupe Fanetupouvava'u, who attended the events with her husband Major Siaosi Kiu Kaho.

The Queen's Jubilee Year was recognised by the 54 member countries of the Commonwealth, in the presence of HRH The Prince of Wales, HRH The Duchess of Cornwall and TRHs The Duke and Duchess of Cambridge.

“HRH The Prince of Wales was pleased to convey, to the Tonga High Commissioner, his kindest regards to His Majesty The King of Tonga and the people of Tonga, as well as his condolences for the devastation that occurred with the triple disaster,” said Hon. Fanetupouvava'u.

This year was the first time Tonga had two flag-bearers, Laumanu Mafi, a Chevening Scholar who carried the flag of the Kingdom of Tonga, and John Kautoke, a Law graduate in London who carried the flag of the Independent State of Samoa. Also paticipating in the events was Elizabeth Kite from Tonga.

Following the service, guests were invited to a Reception at Marlborough House hosted by the Commonwealth Secretary General, The Rt Hon Patricia Scotland, where guests were invited to meet with HRH The Prince of Wales.

Welcoming the guests to the venue were Commonwealth Secretariat Director of Trade, Oceans and Natural Resources Division Paulo Kautoke, and Josie Latu Sanft.