PIC organized an online business seminar titled “Relationship between the Kingdom of Tonga and Japan and future challenges after Covid-19 ” in commemoration of the 50th anniversary of the establishment of diplomacy between Tonga and Japan on 20 November 2020.

Followed by the opening remarks by H.E. Dr. T Suka MANGISI, Ambassador of the Kingdom of Tonga to Japan, Mr. Kitahara, Waseda University, presented on the bond between Japan and Tonga looking back on our history of 50 years.

The four representatives from Tonga made presentations on their current statuses and future issues in perspective of each field. At the last part of seminar, a request for the necessity and support of a school bus in Tonga was announced.
Please refer to the seminar programs as follows, and presentation materials are available by clicking the icon.

Program

Opening remarks
H.E. Dr. T. Suka MANGISI, Ambassador of the Kingdom of Tonga to Japan

Presentation 1
“The bond between the Kingdom of Tonga and Japan from the perspective of history”
Dr. Takuya Kitahara, Waseda Univ.

Introduction of PIC’s activities
Ms. Yukie Matsui, Trade Officer, PIC

Presentation 2
“Trade and Investment Opportunities in Tonga” (PDF)
Mrs. Distaquaine Tu’ihalamaka
CEO for Ministry of Trade and Economic Development

Presentation 3
“The current situation and future challenge in context of Covid-19” (PDF)
Mr. Paula Taumoepeau
President, The Tonga Chamber of Commerce and Industry

Presentation 4 (Fishery Sector)
“Current Fishery Situation and Future Opportunities in Tonga – a Fisher’s Perspective” (PDF)
Mr. Eddie and Mrs. Rosemarie Palu
Atlantis Fisheries Pty Ltd (trading as Pacific Sunrise Fishing)

Presentation 5 (Agriculture sector)
“Efforts and approach to bring Tongan squash into the Japanese market”
Mr. Uatesoni Namoa
CEO, VNF Trading Ltd

Q&A

Announcement and request from Tonga
“Bus Project for Tonga College”
Mr. Takai Palei, Yokokawa solution Services Corporation

Closing
Mr. Ryuzo Saito, Director, Pacific Islands Centre