Australia’s Foreign Minister Penny Wong and Assistant Minister Matt Thistlethwaite are visiting Tonga this week, as part of a Pacific tour, to strengthen regional partnerships.
The delegation will meet with Prime Minister Dr. ‘Aisake Eke and Crown Prince Tupoutoʻa ʻUlukalala, who serves as Tonga’s Minister for Foreign Affairs and His Majesty’s Armed Forces. Discussions will focus on shared Pacific Islands Forum priorities, climate resilience, and regional security.
Senator Wong emphasised the significance of the visit, stating, “This early visit to the region again demonstrates how deeply we value being part of the Pacific family.”
This trip marks Assistant Minister Thistlethwaite’s first official overseas engagement since his appointment. The delegation’s itinerary also includes Fiji and Vanuatu, highlighting Australia’s commitment to strengthening ties across the Pacific.
In Fiji, meetings with Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka will address the Vuvale Partnership, trade relations, and collaborative efforts on climate action and development. In Vanuatu, discussions will focus on the Nakamal Agreement, aiming to enhance bilateral relations and community connections.
Australia positions itself as a respectful and reliable partner, responding to the region’s needs and priorities. This visit reinforces Australia’s role in fostering a peaceful, stable, and prosperous Pacific.
