Photos by Linny Folau

The new Fa'onelua Convention Centre, built for the Pacific Island Leaders Forum to be held in Tonga, was officially opened by the Queen Mother Halaevalu Mata'aho this afternoon, September 20.

The centre, built at a cost of $3 million pa'anga, funded by the People's Republic of China, was built specially for the 38th Pacific Island Leaders Forum to be held in Nuku'alofa on October 15-19.

The 900 square meter building completed in November last year, holds up to 400 people in the main conference hall.

China's assistance

Hon. Dr Viliami Tangi the Deputy Prime Minister of Tonga said today that Tonga is grateful for China's assistance in financing and constructing the centre as well as putting up new flagpoles.

He said that the Australian and New Zealand Governments also assisted in electronically furnishing the building. The centre is fitted with Internet facilities, and has meeting rooms, a lounge and bathroom facilities.

After the Forum meeting next month it will be the venue for an important Ministers meeting at the end of the year.

"The new centre, which is a big development for Tonga will help increase foreign revenue into the country," said Dr Tangi.

The Queen Mother thanked the People's Republic of China for their assistance.

The construction began in June last year, by a Chinese contractor, the China Civil Engineering Construction Corporation.