Prime Minister Fumio Kishida of Japan welcomed PM Sovaleni for a bilateral meeting in Tokyo to discuss mutual interests during the triennial meeting with Pacific leaders and Japan (PALM10) running from 16-18 July 2024.
Japan is set to support Tonga with several key infrastructure projects, including the extension and construction of Fua’amotu Airport, the Nuku’alofa foreshore, and the main road from the airport to Nuku’alofa.
Other initiatives discussed include non-project grant aid, grassroots projects in health, education, fisheries, agriculture, and disaster relief operations, as well as Defence Cooperation. The Japan International Cooperation Association (JICA) will play a critical role in managing these projects.
Tonga’s delegation includes Lord Fohe, Minister for Agriculture and Acting Minister for Fisheries, Chief Secretary Paula Pouvalu Ma’u, Ambassador HE Suka Mangisi, and Fisheries CEO Vailala Matoto.
