10 May 2011

China to provide military hardware to Tonga

2:15 pm on 10 May 2011

China will provide military equipment to Tonga worth just under one million US dollars.

This follows an agreement reached between Tonga's Ambassador to China, Siamelie Latu, and Rear Admiral Guan Youfei, who was in Tonga recently.

Tonga is also reported to be set to increase its number of soldiers, with China being prepared to assist in the training of Tonga's personnel.

Tongan media report that China has approved in principle the participation of its military band in the celebration of King George Tupou V birthday in August.