The Ambassador said the relocation and settlement for the people from Kanokupolu village, which was severely damaged by the tsunami caused by Hunga-Tonga Hunga-Ha'apai in January, 2022 is part of a Paletu'a Project.

The main component is the installation of the main water pipes (2543 meters) funded with USD91,399.

"I visited Kanokupolu village after the tsunami with the staff of National Emergency Management Officer and His Majesty's Armed Forces, who were delivering emergency relief supplies from Japan. In looking at their devotion, I remembered the Great East Japan Earthquake in 2011.

“Japan is also very prone to natural disasters. Such a devastating aftermath in Kanokupolu makes us recall many sad memories. Therefore, we are happy and even proud to be able to participate in this disaster-poof resettlement project so that we won’t repeat similar tragedies any more."

He commended the co-financers, MORDI Tonga and Tonga Water Board for their cooperation.

For the Free Wesleyan Primary School, this project will provide a safer and better educational environment for students.

“The people here value education very much. The capacity of class rooms in the school cannot catch up with the needs from the parents, and some students have to study in the classroom without walls. We are happy to provide a better classroom for them through GGP.

“In addition, the people of Puke will also get their water supply system upgraded,” he said.

"Since the current water supply system is not enough for the growing population, we decided to enlarge the size of the water pipes in Puke and also to expand the supply area. I hope that all families will have better access to clean and safe water 24-hours a day."

The Minister of Finance Hon. Tiofilusi Tiueti extended Tonga's gratitude to the Government and people of Japan.

"Our government has benefited from GGP since its inception with over 300 projects awarded to different communities and NGOs, schools and public enterprises.

These general assistances have helped our local community's development in achieving a more equitable distribution of economic and social benefits by addressing gaps, including santitiation and health care, public welfare, education and improving access to clean and safe drinking water, as we are witnessing today."

The signing was held at the Ministry of Finance, St George Government Building.