The Premier of the People's Republic of China, Li Keqiang pledged that China would advance the development of relations between China and Tonga, when he met the Tongan Prime Minister Lord Tu'ivakano at the Great Hall of the People in downtown Beijing on Monday, 22 July.

Lord Tu'ivakano told the premier that Tonga attached great importance to developing relations with China.

The Xinhua News Agencies reported that Premier Li Keqiang said that China was willing "to expand communication with Tonga in all fields, strengthen cooperation in agriculture, fishery, new energy, tourism and international affairs and promote the development of bilateral ties."

Premier Li Keqiang also briefed Lord Tu'ivakano on China's economic development and reform efforts. He said that the Chinese government focused on advancing scientific development, improving people's welfare and coordinating steady economic growth, economic restructuring and reform.

He said that China would continue to simplify administrative procedures and delegate powers to lower levels to invigorate the market, as well as carry out financial and fiscal reforms and make efforts to develop the real economy.

"The sustainable and healthy development of China's economy will play an important role in advancing global economic revival," he said.

The press statement said that Lord Tu'ivakano told the premier that Tonga "attached great importance to developing relations with China and is willing to expand comprehensive cooperation and enhance communication with China."