By Tupou Vaipulu Jr.

Soldiers from the Australian Army and His Majesty’s Armed Forces (HMAF) are participating in a Pōvai Training Program at Taliai Military Camp in Fua’amotu, Tongatapu, this week.

The training is part of the expanded Pōvai Warrior Program that began last year.

The training included hand-to-hand combat, rifle and pistol handling, combat first aid and physical fitness instructing.

Major Tom Maclean, Australian Army, told Matangi Tonga that these are basic skills that soldiers need.

"This training is a really good opportunity for Tonga and Australia to work together and share skilles with each other" he said.

Major Maclean said that engineers from both armies have been working together on the construction of the new gym for the military base.