20th April, 2018 The Ambassador of Japan to Tonga His Excellency Mr. Tetsuya Ishii, handed-over 200 volleyballs to the Minister of Education and Training Hon. Penisimani Fifita and Acting CEO for Internal Affairs Mr. ‘Onetoto ‘Anisi today at ‘Atele Indoor Stadium.
Mr. Tetsuya Ishii said the gift is part of Japan’s Sports for Tomorrow Initiative, which comes through the Japan Sports Agency.
“In anticipation of the upcoming 2019 Rugby World Cup and the 2020 summer Olympics and Paralympics Games, which will be held in Japan, the people of Japan are happy to support Tonga’s efforts to be successfully represented at the international level.”
He stated the volleyballs will contribute to strengthen the capacity of this sport in Tonga.
“It is our greatest pleasure to help the people of the Kingdom with upgrading the country’s sports capability, as well as encouraging a healthy lifestyle for the people of Tonga in accordance with the wishes of His Majesty and the Government of Tonga.”
He hoped that the volleyballs will contribute to the benefit of schools and the community including Tonga Volleyball Association.
“Use them well to strengthen the Kingdom’s preparation for schools’ sports, national sports, regional and international sports.”
President of Tonga Volleyball Association Mr. Tevita Siale expressed his appreciation for the Government of Japan for showing their interests in developing the sport in Tonga.
“These volleyballs will help our schools and our local volleyball tournaments and also our National Squad in preparation for the South Pacific Games next year.’’
The 200 volleyballs will be distributed among 21 schools in Tongatapu as well as the Tonga Volleyball Association.
ENDS
Issued by the: Ministry of Meteorology, Energy, Information, Disaster Management, Environment, Climate Change and Communications.