Tongan Prime Minister Drops Reference to China, Taiwan in Press Statement

In a seeming repeat of what happened at the 2024 Pacific Island Forum, mention of Taiwan and ‘Chinese influence’ appeared, then disappeared.

Tonga's new Prime Minister designate 'Aisake Valu Eke speaks to his nomination at the Tonga Legislative Assembly before the secret ballot for prime minister in Nuku'alofa, Tonga, on Dec. 24, 2024. Tupou Vaipulu/AFP via Getty Images

In what seems to be a repeat of the censorship of the Pacific Islands Forum’s (PIF) 2024 final communique, a statement from Tonga’s Prime Minister ‘Aisake Valu Eke has had references to Taiwan and “Chinese influence” removed, and the document reissued.

On Aug. 29, Eke’s office issued a press statement headed “Tonga’s Turn: Leading the Pacific with Purpose,” and lauded Tonga’s role as this year’s Chair of the Forum during what it called “a year marked by geopolitical tension and climate urgency.”