Around 40,000 doses of the Moderna COVID-19 vaccine donated by the Government of Spain arrived in Tonga on 22 September.

This new type of vaccine known as COVID-19 MRNA Moderna vaccine (SpikeVax Product) was handed over by the Honorary Consul of Spain to the Kingdom of Tonga, Mrs. ‘Amelia Fakahikuo’uiha Helu, to the CEO of Health, Dr. Siale ‘Akau’ola, at Fua'amotu International Airport.

The Consulate of Spain in Nuku'alofa stated the donation from the Kingdom of Spain to the Kingdom of Tonga will assist with the vaccination of people to protect against COVID-19.

Dr. 'Akau'ola in expessing gratitude for the vaccine aid said the doses will be used as second booster dose for those over 40-50 years of age, as well as vulnerable groups and front liners, and for those who are planning to travel overseas with potential risk of being exposed to new Covid-19 variants of concern, he said.

Meanwhile, the establishment of the Consulate of Spain in Nuku’alofa in 2021 has provided an opportunity to strengthen bilateral relations between our two countries.