23 Aug 2010

Tonga Government ending Dateline joint venture

3:12 pm on 23 August 2010

The Tonga Government is ending its joint venture with the Chinese co-owner of one of the country's main hotels, the International Dateline.

The Ministry of Public Enterprises says the Government is working on acquiring full ownership of the hotel.

The director of the Ministry, Inoke Vala, says at the same time it's seeking expressions of interest for either a new owner or manager.

"There are differences within the Government and its partner. So the kind of situation now, the Government thinks it's best to take over. There is a process in place. We would rather see it completed before we talk about it publicly."

Inoke Vala says a number of local and international companies have responded to their advertisements.