The FAO’s Pacific chief has formalised collaboration with Tonga, aligning efforts on food security and climate resilience.
The Food and Agriculture Organisation (FAO) Subregional Coordinator for the Pacific Islands and FAO Representative to Tonga, Guangzhou Qu, officially presented his credentials to Prime Minister Hon. Dr. ‘Aisake Valu Eke this week at the Prime Minister’s Office in Nuku’alofa.
Mr Qu expressed gratitude for Tonga’s enduring partnership with FAO, acknowledging the nation’s proactive role in global initiatives to strengthen agrifood systems, combat climate change, and promote sustainable development. He reaffirmed FAO’s commitment to supporting Tonga’s national efforts to enhance food security and resilience.
In a separate meeting, Mr Qu also presented his credentials to the Minister of Agriculture, Food and Forestry, Hon. Siosiua Moala Halavatau. He emphasised FAO’s alignment with Tonga’s development priorities and highlighted the organisation’s dedication to transforming Tonga’s agrifood systems through initiatives promoting biodiversity, the One Health approach, digital agriculture, climate adaptation, and healthy diets.
These meetings coincided with the Pacific Week of Agriculture and Forestry (PWAF), held from 26 to 30 May in Nuku’alofa. Hosted by the Tongan Government with support from FAO and the Pacific Community (SPC), the event brought together regional leaders to address shared challenges and explore opportunities in agriculture and forestry.
The theme for PWAF 2025, “Transform Agriculture & Forestry: More Regeneration, More Productivity, More Resilience,” underscored the region’s commitment to sustainable and resilient agrifood systems. Discussions focused on enhancing biodiversity, supporting rural livelihoods, and adapting to climate change impacts.
FAO’s engagement with Tonga and the broader Pacific region reflects a concerted effort to bolster agrifood systems, ensuring food security and environmental sustainability amid growing climate challenges.
