The Prime Minister of Tonga, Hon Hu’akavameiliku, officially opened the Pacific Community’s (SPC) new Polynesia Regional Office (PRO) at the O.G Sanft Building yesterday. The PRO is set to provide a central hub of support for the people and communities in the SPC Polynesian Member Countries, with a focus on strengthening cooperation with members and partners across Polynesia.
In his keynote address, Hon Hu’akavameiliku noted that Tonga joined SPC in 1983, and the opening of the new office is a significant milestone, celebrating Tonga’s 40th anniversary in the organization. He emphasized that the presence of SPC on the ground will enable direct access to services and programs offered to Polynesian member countries of SPC, allowing a greater focus on some of Tonga’s key priorities that require support from SPC and other regional partners.
Director General of SPC Dr Suart Minchin highlighted the significance of the establishment of a Polynesia Regional Office, stating that the absence of such an office was very noticeable when he started in the organization in 2020. After consultations and deliberations, the exploration of creating the office began in September 2020.
The Polynesia Regional Office is now ready to deliver for members, with Ms Leituala Kuiniselani Toelupe Tago as the Regional Director.
The programme was attended by Ministers of Cabinet, members of the diplomatic corps, and guests.
Source: Government Press
