HE Mr Wang Donghua and HRH Princess Pilolevu. Nuku'alofa, 25 September 2013.

The 15 year diplomatic relationship between the People's Republic of China and Tonga had resulted in fruitful cooperation and development, which included the gift of an MA60 aircraft to Tonga, the Chinese Ambassador to Tonga HE Mr Wang Donghua said last night, September 26.

At a reception in Nuku'alofa, to mark the 64th anniversary of the founding of the People's Republic of China, Ambassador Donghua said that since Tonga and China established diplomatic relations in Beijing 15-years ago it had opened a new chapter in the friendly relationship and mutually beneficial cooperation between the two countries, which “had observed the principles of sovereign equality and mutual respect in developing bilateral relations”.

MA60

The Ambassador said the Tonga-China cooperation was part of their efforts to enhance the capacity of countries for self-development.

"The Chinese Government granted Tonga an MA60 aircraft and a number of measures were taken accordingly to ensure its safe and smooth operation in Tonga. I am happy to know that the MA60 is doing well in its operation in Tonga, not only benefiting passengers with lower airfares, but also generating profits for Government."

He said the airline operator and passengers had indicated the aircraft was more cost-effective, and more passenger friendly and “gives new impetus to the development of tourism industry in the country.”

He said another development was the agreement reached between both sides on the St George Palace to be built with grant from the Chinese government and construction was expected to start next July.

"As Pacific and developing countries, China and Tonga share a wide range of common interests, face the common task of development and have the common need to further explore and strengthen cooperation."

Support

Tonga's Acting Prime Minister Lord Ma'afu, responded that the Government of Tonga supported China in promoting the strong ties between the two countries and on issues of importance to China at every opportunity in the international forums of which Tonga is a member.

"The Government of Tonga firmly adheres to China’s core value of the One-China policy and our joint undertaking not to interfere in each other’s internal affairs. These remain the important belief of our relations as they reinforce the principle of mutual respect for each other’s sovereignty."

Hew said the Government of Tonga was grateful for the assistance rendered by the Chinese Government and local Chinese community through generous donations, grant aid and construction projects, which had improved the daily lives of Tongan citizens. “China’s responsive program of economic and technical cooperation has immensely benefited the Government, which focuses on national development,” he said.

The reception at the International Dateline Hotel was attended by HRH Princess Pilolevu Tuita as guest of honour, with members of the diplomatic corps and the local Chinese community.