13th August, 2018 The Acting Prime Minister, Hon Semisi Sika, Ministers of the Crown, Chinese Ambassador to Tonga and guests welcomed the captain and crew members of the Chinese naval hospital ship Ark Peace at Vuna Wharf this morning.
This is the Ark Peace’s second visit to Tonga and will be providing free medical service in the next eight days for the locals.
Chinese Ambassador to Tonga His Excellency Mr. Wang Baodong said, “Over the past 20 years since China and Tonga established diplomatic ties, bilateral relations have maintained constant development with deepening exchanges and increasing cooperation in various fields which have brought more benefits to our two countries and their people.”
Mr. Baodong said that the visit of the Ark Peace is “of great significance” on the occasion of celebrating the 20th anniversary of Tonga-China diplomatic relations.
He believed that the visit will reinforce the cooperation of China and Tonga in health, military and enhance their friendship.
Rear Admiral Guan Bailin said that the Ark Peace is an “old friend of Tonga.”
“Three years ago, we were here from August 13th to the 20th. We were and are still impressed by your unique natural beauty, kind and hospitable people. This second visit this time is just like a joyful get together for old friends while it is surprising that the current visit is also from August 13th – 20th.
“In the following few days, we will provide free medical services, ship tool and exchange culture entertainments to further deepen our mutual understanding, expand communication and cooperation to cement the traditional friendship,” he said.
The Ark Peace will depart Tonga on Monday next week.
ENDS
Issued by the: Ministry of Meteorology, Energy, Information, Disaster Management, Environment, and Climate Change & Communications