Tonga will take part in China’s key Pacific foreign ministers’ meeting next week, highlighting deepening regional ties.
Crown Prince and Minister for Foreign Affairs Tupouto‘a ‘Ulukalala will represent Tonga at the Third China–Pacific Island Countries Foreign Ministers’ Meeting in Xiamen, Fujian Province from May 28–29, according to China’s Foreign Ministry.
The summit, chaired by Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi, will bring together leaders from 11 Pacific nations with diplomatic ties to China, focusing on development, climate action, and regional security.
Leaders from Kiribati, Niue, Nauru, Micronesia, Solomon Islands, Vanuatu, Papua New Guinea, Cook Islands, Fiji, and Samoa are also attending. The Pacific Islands Forum’s Deputy Secretary General, Esala Nayasi, will take part as well.
The summit aims to enhance cooperation on development, climate change, trade, and regional security. China has positioned the forum as a platform to build a “shared future” with Pacific nations, focusing on mutual respect and non-interference.
Tonga’s participation highlights its ongoing cooperation with China, particularly in infrastructure, health, and disaster resilience. In recent years, China has funded key projects in Tonga, including road upgrades and public buildings, strengthening bilateral relations.
This year’s meeting comes amid heightened regional competition, with China’s growing influence drawing attention from traditional partners like Australia and New Zealand. Last week, New Zealand’s Deputy Prime Minister Winston Peters warned against militarisation, while Australian Foreign Minister Penny Wong acknowledged China’s vital role in addressing climate issues.
As the Pacific navigates global power shifts, Tonga’s role in this forum reflects its intent to shape regional decisions and maintain strong international partnerships.
