20 Nov 2002

Tongan PM cuts short official visit to French Polynesia

11:51 am on 20 November 2002

Tonga's prime minister, Prince Ulakala Lavaka'ata, has cut short an official visit to French Polynesia.

The prince's early return to Nukualofa has been prompted by issued linked d to the running of Royal Tongan Airlines.

The prime minister's office has declined to give details.

His five-day visit was aimed at strengthening the relationship between the French Polynesia and Tonga, which was helped by the Papeete government after cyclone damage to Vava'u.

The prince was looking at the territory's developing use of multimedia equipment, aviation and fishing.