On May 10, 2023, Deputy Chief of Mission (DCM) Antone Greubel presided over a Ceremonial Flag Raising to open the new United States Embassy to the Kingdom of Tonga.
Acting Foreign Minister, Hon. Samu Vaipulu attended and spoke on behalf of the government of Tonga, and Rev. Dr. Taliai Niumeitolu delivered an opening prayer.
In his remarks DCM Greubel said, “This event symbolizes the renewal of our relationship and underlines the strength of our commitment to our bilateral relationship and to the people of Tonga. Our partnership is rooted in shared values and close cooperation, ranging from combating the climate crisis to improving maritime security and enhancing our cooperation to advance economic and sustainable development. We are also looking forward to celebrating our Embassy opening on an even larger scale later this year.”
Today’s Embassy opening comes less than one year after Vice President Harris announced the United States would pursue discussions to establish an embassy in Tonga, and it is the beginning of a new chapter of U.S.-Tongan relations.
This new embassy reflects the U.S. commitment to expand and deepen our cooperation with the Kingdom of Tonga in the years ahead and will enable us to more fully engage with our friends in Tonga and the broader region, connect U.S. programs and resources with needs on the ground, to support frequent requests for more consular services in the region, and strengthen people-to-people ties.
Source: Press Release
