During his address at the opening of the People-Centered Public Finance Management and National Debt Symposium at Moulton Hall today, Tonga’s Minister of Finance, Hon Tiofilusi Tiueti, emphasised the need for unified efforts to safeguard Tonga’s economic future. Speaking to a diverse audience, including representatives from civil society organisations, government, and regional stakeholders, Hon Tiueti highlighted the urgency of reimagining Tonga’s national budget to prioritise resilience and inclusivity.
“To build a Tonga that is not only resilient but also equitable, we must reimagine our national budget. It’s time to shift our focus from mere survival to thriving. By uniting the government, civil society, and key stakeholders, we can forge a path towards a more inclusive and prosperous future for generations to come,” said Hon Tiueti.
The symposium brought together participants from the Pacific Islands Associations of NGOs (PIANGO) networks, regional civil society organizations (CSOs), and community representatives. The discussions centered on raising awareness about Tonga’s public debt and its far-reaching impact on the economy, society, environment, and future generations.
Participants engaged in community-led discussions, exploring the implications of debt on service delivery, employment, and livelihoods, while also generating recommendations to address these challenges.
Hon Tiueti stressed the importance of collaboration, urging all key stakeholders to work together in executing the government’s plans and initiatives. “I am confident that through collaborative efforts, we can develop solutions that promote financial sustainability and enhance service delivery for all Tongans,” he added.
The Debt Symposium, held as part of the pre-Pacific People’s Forum at CFT’s Pacific CSO Village in Tonga, sets the stage for continued dialogue leading up to the Pacific Islands Forum Leaders Meeting.
