HM King Tupou VI, Queen Nanasipau'u and Tevita Mara at the 'Eua Royal Agricultural Show 2012. 12 October 2012.

HM King Tupou VI opened a one-day 'Eua Royal Agricultural Show 2012 on Friday, October 12 at the Malau 'o Vailahi grounds in Niu'eiki.

'Eleni Fatiki Tu'i of the Ministry of Agriculture and Food, Forests and Fisheries said today the 'Eua show was a success, attracting over 300 participants including farmers, fishermen and handicraft makers.

She said this year's show was significant and special for the people in 'Eua because it was opened by the King accompanied by Queen Nanasipau'u. "Many people expressed to us their joy in seeing the king on their island," she said.

The king  highlighted in his speech the importance of ensuring and securing enough food supply for Tonga. He was pleased that the Royal Agricultural shows were held to coincide with the World Food Day on October 16, which is marked by member countries of FAO Food and Agriculture Organization.

FAO stated that the theme of the 2012 World Food Day, "Agricultural Cooperatives is the key to feeding the world", is aimed to highlight the role of cooperatives in improving food security and contributing to the eradication of hunger.

She said on display were an abundance of traditional Tongan food crops, vegetables, seafood, beautiful Tongan handicrafts and even a colouful parrot.

Traditional dances were also held during the one-day event, attended by Prime Minister Lord Tu'ivakano and Minister for Agriculture and Food, Forests and Fisheries Hon. Sangster Saulala.

The king who returned to Tongatapu today will open a two-day show on Friday, October 19 at the Manamou'i Grounds at 'Atele, for Tongatapu.

A Ha'apai show was first held on October 5 and opened by HRH Crown Prince Tupouto'a 'Ulukalaka in Pangai.