China, Tonga to further ties

China is willing to promote its bilateral ties with Tonga, a senior Chinese legislator has said.

On the invitation of Tonga's parliament, a delegation led by Arken Imirbaki, vice chairman of the Standing Committee of China's National People's Congress (NPC) concluded its three-day goodwill visit to the Pacific kingdom on Thursday.

During the visit, Arken Imirbaki met with Tongan Prime Minister Akilisi Pohiva and Parliament Speaker Lord Tu'ivakano separately, and held a collective discussion with Tonga's members of parliament.

Chinese President Xi Jinping held a successful meeting with Tongan leaders in November 2014, during which the two sides agreed to establish a strategic partnership featuring mutual respect and common development, which has chartered the course for developing bilateral relations, Arken Imirbaki said.

Under the new circumstances, China is willing to make concerted efforts with Tonga to earnestly implement the important consensus, and promote mutual trust and mutual benefit, so that bilateral ties can reach a new stage, Arken Imirbaki said.

China's NPC is willing to enhance exchanges and cooperation with Tonga's parliament to help deepen the friendly ties between the two countries, the senior Chinese legislator added.

The Tongan officials said they are thankful to China for the precious long-term support and assistance it has provided. Tonga will steadfastly adhere to one China policy and is committed to enhancing exchanges and cooperation with China in all fields. Endit