Pacific Islands Forum Chair and Prime Minister Hon. Dr. ‘Aisake Eke has reaffirmed Tonga’s non-aligned foreign policy and commitment to regional cooperation as Pacific nations navigate shifting geopolitical dynamics and growing security concerns.
Responding to a question about how Tonga plans to maintain its sovereignty and stability in a competitive strategic environment, Dr Eke stressed a policy of openness and regional collaboration.
“In terms of our foreign policy, the Government of Tonga is basically no enemies and friends for all. This is first of all our policy,” he said.
“Regional security is very important, and we have a programme with Australia on security. And also some from other states. American also… we maintain that kind of security.”
Dr Eke acknowledged the role of collective efforts through the Pacific Islands Forum and the lessons of history as Tonga shapes its path forward.
“This comes also to a collective issue. Even though we have each country of sovereignty to make… decisions. But this is something correct and we know the history, World War II… still vivid in our mind,” he said.
“Navigating our way forward… this is the strong partnership we have actually worked in terms of strengthening our regional security.”
Australian Foreign Minister Penny Wong echoed the need for strong regional architecture in the face of global power competition.
“What do we do in the face of all of these things happening to assure our sovereignty? I think it’s trusted partners and a strong region,” Wong said.
“You get a stronger region with strengthening and investing in and working within the Pacific Islands Forum as the key regional architecture.”
Pressed on whether Australia’s strategic ambitions might overshadow Pacific priorities, Wong rejected the premise and stressed shared goals.
“I don’t accept the way you asked the question. I think we all want to assure our sovereignty… We’re not one of the superpowers,” she said.
“We want the PIF to operate in a way that reflects the needs of all of its members.”
Wong highlighted two Pacific-led initiatives — the Pacific Resilience Facility (PRF) and the Pacific Policing Initiative as examples of how regional ownership is driving security and development efforts.
“It’s Australia-backed, but it’s Pacific-led. It’s Pacific countries saying we will take responsibility for our own security. And that is an action of resilience,” she said.
Source: Pacnews
