Day 2 of the ongoing 53rd Pacific Islands Forum Leaders Meeting (PILFM53), His Excellency Mr. Omar Shehadeh, Envoy of the Minister of Foreign Affairs to the Caribbean and Pacific Islands and Head of Delegation from the United Arab Emirates (UAE), held a bilateral meeting with the Hon. Minister for Trade and Economic Development of Tonga, Dr. Viliami Uasike Latu.

The meeting focused on exploring potential investments in Tonga’s airline and accommodation sectors, which are critical for enhancing the Tonga’s tourism industry and overall economic growth. H.E. Shehadeh expressed the UAE’s strong interest in supporting these sectors, recognizing their importance for improving Tonga’s connectivity and hospitality infrastructure.

Hon. Minister Latu welcomed this initiative and approved further work to be carried out to develop these opportunities. This collaboration represents a significant step forward in strengthening ties between Tonga and the UAE, promising to bring substantial benefits to Tonga’s economy and infrastructure.

The meeting was also attended by Hon. ‘Akau’ola, Tonga’s ambassador to UAE, the CEO of the MTED, Distaquaine Tuihalamaka and Head of Labour Division, Kolotia Fotu.