14 Oct 2015

Tonga hints at visit to Papua over human rights concerns

9:23 am on 14 October 2015

Tonga's Government has responded to Indonesia's accusation that claims by Tonga's Prime Minister at the United Nations were misleading.

Akilisi Pohiva

Akilisi Pohiva Photo: AAP (file)

'Akilisa Pohiva told the UN General Assembly in New York that the UN should investigate allegations of human rights abuses in the provinces of Papua and West Papua.

He said the UN has the moral obligation to follow up the issue and take any necessary action to stop the "brutal and inhumane activities".

However Indonesia responded saying it strongly rejects the references and the comments by Mr Pohiva as well as the Solomon Islands Prime Minister, Manasseh Sogavare.

The Secretary for Foreign Affairs and Trade, Va'inga Tone, told Radio Tonga the government wants to work together with Indonesia to seek clarification bilaterally or through a joint visit to the country on a fact finding mission.

He says it's the joint concern of Pacific countries not to leave anyone behind and it is within the power of leaders to take action.