By Tupou Vaipulu Jr.

The Pacific Partnership exercise has returned to Tonga after a decade, marking the largest annual multinational mission in the Indo-Pacific. With nearly 1500 personnel from Australia, Canada, Chile, Japan, Republic of Korea, New Zealand, the United Kingdom, and the United States, the mission focuses on disaster response, public health, and civic preparedness.

The USS Pearl Harbor has arriving in Nuku'alofa in support of the 2023 Pacific Partnership mission.

Activities include medical care, emergency preparedness training, and community engagements.

In a keynote speech delivered by the Deputy PM, Hon Samiu K Vaipulu during the Opening Ceremony of Pacific Partnership 2023 at Tanoa International Dateline Hotel, he emphasized the enduring bonds of friendship uniting Pacific nations.

Highlighting the genesis of Pacific Partnership in response to the 2004 tsunami, the DPM highlighted its evolution into a program promoting multinational cooperation. "The Pacific Partnership, embodies the values of compassion and solidarity, it stands as a testament to the understanding that no single nation can navigate these challenges alone," he said.

He said as Tonga approaches the cyclone season, it is a reminder of the responsibility to address the diverse challenges facing the Pacific region, from natural disasters to climate change and healthcare system fortification.

Hon. Samiu Vaipulu urged a commitment to improve disaster preparedness and response, emphasizing the importance of tailoring approaches to reach vulnerable groups often left behind. He encouraged participants to seize the opportunity to share expertise, collaborate, and develop essential skills.

The Pacific Partnership 2023 mission will conclude on Monday, 20 November.

Joining the DPM was the Mission Commander for Pacific Partnership, Captain Claudine Caluori of the U.S Navy, the Diplomatic Corps, with local and visiting officials.