China grants TOP$5.6 million in aid for Tonga

China grants TOP$5.6 million in aid for Tonga

The Governments of Tonga and China signed an agreement today, 4th March 2011, approving approximately TOP$5.6 million (RMB 20 million) in aid funds to be provided by the Chinese Government for priority development projects in the Kingdom.

The Prime Minister & Minister for Foreign Affairs and Immigration, Lord Tu’ivakanō and the Ambassador of the People’s Republic of China to Tonga, H.E Mr. Wang Donghua signed the Agreement of Economic and Technical Cooperation between the Government of the Kingdom of Tonga and the Government of the People’s Republic of China at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs this morning.
Aid funds are targeted for various projects, to be decided upon later by both governments.

Lord Tu’ivakano thanked the Chinese government, acknowledging that the grant came as a result of the recent visit by His Majesty King George Tupou V to Beijing in late January:

“The Government of Tonga is extremely grateful – especially as we are all struggling through economically strained times,” he said.

His Excellency Wang Donghua added that Tonga and China were “true friends” who have “always treated each other with respect”.

“China is fast developing its economy but it is still a developing country like Tonga. We have lots of challenges to face in developing our economy, but we value our relationship with Tonga.
“Friends help friends. Poor help poor,” he said.

Details regarding disbursement procedures will be handled by Tonga’s Ministry of Finance and National Planning and the China Development Bank.
The arrangement marks another milestone in Tonga’s relationship with China, including continued technical and economic cooperation.
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