TONGA PARLIAMENTARY DELEGATION CONCLUDES OFFICIAL VISIT TO THE PEOPLE’S REPUBLIC OF CHINA

LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY OF TONGA

PRESS RELEASE

TONGA PARLIAMENTARY DELEGATION CONCLUDES OFFICIAL VISIT TO THE PEOPLE’S REPUBLIC OF CHINA

The Parliamentary delegation from the Legislative Assembly of Tonga has successfully concluded its official visit to the People’s Republic of China from May 6th – 15th 2026.

The delegation was led by the Speaker of the Legislative Assembly of Tonga, Lord Vaea, and comprised of 10 Members of Parliament and four supporting staff.

The visit was undertaken following an invitation extended by the International Department of the Central Committee of the Communist Party of China (IDCPC) to the Speaker of the Legislative Assembly of Tonga.

The visit marked an important milestone in strengthening parliamentary cooperation, strengthen understanding and knowledge between both sides, thus further advancing China – Tonga relations.

One of the symbolic highlights of the visit was the delegation’s tour of the Great Wall of China, where members reflected on the famous words of former Chairman of the Communist Party of China, Mao Zedong “He who has not climbed the Great Wall is not a great man”.

Lord Vaea and several members of the delegation ascended toward the Third Tower of the South Side of the Great Wall, while other members explored beyond the Fourth Tower.

Throughout the visit, the delegation participated in a series of high-level meetings, thematic dialogue, site visits, and engagements with government officials, educational institution, and leading companies. Discussions focussed on Tonga-China relations, parliamentary cooperation, development priorities, renewable energy and other areas of mutual interest.

Key engagements included meetings with Vice Minister, Lu Kang, and other senior officials, participation in the Thematic Dialogue between the Communist Party of China (CPC) and Foreign Political Parties in Hebei Province, and visits to major Chinese companies and innovation centres including CCECC, Hytera Company, JA Solar Manufacturing Base, Tongfu Smart Farm, Multi-station Integrated DC Microgrid Demonstration project and the Dongguan Agricultural Technology and Research Center.

The delegation also visited important historical and cultural sites including the Great Wall of China, the Forbidden City, Museums, and leading companies in China.

Educational cooperation was another focus of the visit. The delegation met with six Tonga students studying in Beijing and visited Shenzhen Ocean University, which has established cooperation with Tonga National University through the Pacific-China Friendship Association to support scholarship opportunities for Tongan students.

During the official discussions, the delegation reaffirmed the Legislative Assembly of Tonga’s continued support for the One China Policy, recognizing the Chinese Government’s pursuit of national reunification and their firm opposition to any move by Taiwan towards independence, in alignment with Government of Tonga’s position and reiterated the importance of continuing diplomatic engagement between Tonga and China.

Members of the delegation included, Hon. Dr. ‘Aisake Valu Eke, Lord Ma’afu, Lord Ve’ehala, Hon. Fane Fotu Fituafe, Hon. Viliami Sisifa, Hon. Mateni Tapueluelu, Hon. Kapeli Lanumata, Hon. Tevita Puloka, Hon. Saimone Vuki, Hon. ‘Esafe Latu, Dr. Sione Vikilani, Yasivou Kalaniuvalu, Saletili Tu’uhetoka and Linda Filiai.

The Legislative Assembly of Tonga expressed its sincere appreciation to the People’s Republic of China, the International Department of the Central Committee of the Communist Party of China (IDCPC), Chinese officials and hosts, Tonga’s Ambassador to China, H.E. Tau’aika ‘Uta’atu, and First Secretary of the Embassy of the Kingdom of Tonga to the People’s Republic of China, Mr. Tupou Vaipulu for their warm hospitality and support throughout the visit.

The Parliamentary delegation returned to Tonga last Saturday and was welcomed at Fua’amotu International Airport by the Ambassador of the People’s Republic of China to Tonga, H.E. Mr. Liu Weimin.

Issued by the Chief Clerk of the Legislative Assembly

19 May 2026

Office of the Legislative Assembly of Tonga, Nuku’alofa, Tonga