THE Speaker of the Israeli Knesset, or Parliament, Hon Reuven Rivlin visited Tonga for the first time on April 7, and joined in a tau'olunga with nurses during a presentation at the Tonga National Centre .

He presented much needed insulin for diabetes to Tonga's Ministry of Health, as a donation by the Government of Israel.

In his address during the presentation at the Tonga National Centre, he told the Minister of Health Hon 'Uliti Uata and health officials, that, "Tonga has supported us so I simply came to say thank you".

He was entertained with a performance of Tonga's traditional dance tau'olunga by nurses and was so impressed that he got up and danced.

During his one day visit the Speaker met with HM King George Tupou V, the Acting Prime Minister Hon Samiu Vaipulu and the Speaker of Tonga's Legislative Assembly Lord Lasike, as well as Government Ministers.

He was accompanied by MK Maim Katz, the Chairman of the Labour, Welfare and Health Committee, HE Mr Shemi Tzur Israel's Ambassador to Tonga based in Wellington and members of the Israel-New Zealand Parliamentary Friendship Group.

They also visited the Langafonua 'a Fafine Tonga Centre where women showcased the traditional making of the tapa cloth and mats.

The Speaker and his team left Tonga tonight.