Tonga’s acting Prime Minister, Samiu Vaipulu, announced today that the government has approved financial aid to support Vanuatu following the devastating earthquake.
Cabinet approved $100,000 for the Vanuatu government and an additional $50,000 for Tonga’s community in Vanuatu.
“These funds were sourced from the government’s Emergency Funds at the MEIDECC (Ministry of Meteorology, Energy, Information, Disaster Management, Environment, Climate Change and Communications) and remain within our budget,” Vaipulu said during a press conference.
No reports have been received by the government about Tongan nationals affected by the disaster.
Vanuatu is grappling with the aftermath of a 7.3 magnitude earthquake that struck on December 17. Conflicting death tolls have been reported, with estimates ranging from 9 to 16 fatalities.
Over 200 people have been injured, and widespread structural damage has been recorded, especially in Port Vila.
International teams from New Zealand, Australia, and France are assisting in rescue operations, with urgent efforts underway to restore power, water, and communication.