The Government of Australia has donated 25 police vans and 2 mini buses to Tonga, valued at $3.6 million Tongan paanga, in a formal handover ceremony held today at the Tonga Police Headquarters in Longolongo.
His Excellency Mr. Brek Batley, the Australian High Commissioner to Tonga, presented the vehicles to the Prime Minister Hu’akavameiliku, who is also the Minister for Police, Fire, and Emergency Services.
The donation will reinforce Tonga’s security infrastructure in preparation for the upcoming Pacific Leaders Meeting at the end of August. The double-cab vans will help with escorting Pacific leaders and ensuring smooth operations during the high-profile event. The new vehicles are expected to replace several aging police cars, some of which have been in service for over 15 years, with several having accumulated over half a million kilometers.
“These 27 vehicles will replace many police cars at the end of their life and will contribute significantly to Tonga’s efforts to ensure a safe and successful Pacific Island Forum Leaders’ meeting,” said Tonga’s Police Commissioner Shane McLennan. He emphasised the importance of reliable vehicles in maintaining effective policing.
In related news, earlier this year a delegation from China’s Ministry of Public Security visited Tonga to discuss assistance for the Pacific Islands Forum Leaders’ Meeting. The delegation of six officers from Shandong Province, focused on offering support to Tonga Police, including resources such as vehicles and motorcycles, which are yet to come through.
China’s support also extended to potential training in motorcade operations and assistance with venue refurbishments, transport for dignitaries, and audio-visual equipment. Tonga’s Police Commissioner Shane McLennan said that China’s aid is centered around ensuring the event’s security and smooth execution. So far, China’s support for the Pacific Forum meeting is with fast tracking the construction of the Tonga High School auditorium and rugby field, which are key venues for the leaders meeting.
Prime Minister Hu’akavameiliku welcomed China’s support, acknowledging the significance of these contributions for the successful hosting of the PIF Leaders’ Meeting.
