The New Zealand government wanted to help Tonga become a safer and prosperous place, High Commissioner Tiffany Babington has said in Nuku’alofa.
She said the New Zealand government greatly appreciated partnership with Tonga.
Babington was speaking during the 179th Anniversary of New Zealand’s National Day, Waitangi Day which was celebrated on February 6, at the High Commissioner’s residence at Va’epopua.
The event was attended by Tonga’s Prime Minister ‘Akilisi Pōhiva and some cabinet ministers.
Babington said New Zealand would continue to work closely with Tonga on its Pacific Reset programme.
The New Zealand government announced this week the funding of the NZ$8.8 million to expand the Pacific Employment Support Scheme, she said.
“Many of New Zealand’s national and international achievements reflect the contribution of highly talented Tongans whether in sport, art, literature, film making, business, music or other a host of other areas,” Babington said.
“The amazing achievements of your rugby league team Mate Ma’a Tonga are world-famous and this year will see some friendly competition between our national teams as well as warm up games before the rugby world cup.”
Babington also spoke on New Zealand’s multi-million financial assistance during Tropical Cyclone Gita post recovery, the conclusion last year of the NZ$30.7 million Tongatapu Village Network Upgrade project and others.
“We share a vision of helping to make Tonga and the Pacific a safer and prosperous place for us all,” she said
