Tonga’s Prime Minister Dr. ‘Aisake Eke recently addressed the 80th Session of the United Nations General Assembly, seizing the opportunity to discuss the country’s commitment to its constitutional legacy, the urgent need for climate action, and the importance of reforms to improve Pacific representation within the UN.
Dr. Eke announced that Tonga will celebrate the 150th anniversary of its Constitution on November 4, 2025, which he described as a significant reflection of the nation’s sovereignty and unity. He reaffirmed Tonga’s dedication to the principles of the UN Charter, emphasizing its essential role in facilitating multilateralism to tackle contemporary global challenges.
In his speech, he stressed the necessity of reforms that would prioritize Pacific issues within the UN agenda. He pointed out that for the UN to effectively serve small island nations, it must partner with those nations and align with the tenets endorsed by regional leaders. He highlighted the challenges faced by small island countries, advocating for simplified reporting procedures, fair financing, and improved representation on global platforms.
Addressing the acute threat of climate change, Dr. Eke articulated the urgency of tackling this existential issue that hampers Tonga’s development progress. He endorsed Australia’s proposal to co-host COP31, viewing it as a vital opportunity for Small Island Developing States to share their voices on a global stage. Additionally, he deemed the recent advisory opinion from the International Court of Justice, which calls for prompt emissions reductions and climate damage compensation, to be both a legal advancement and a moral imperative.
During his address, Dr. Eke expressed pride in Tonga’s leadership as Chair of the Pacific Islands Forum, an initiative that has strengthened regional unity in global discussions. He urged development partners to support the Pacific Resilience Facility (PRF), which aims to fill funding gaps for critical adaptation initiatives, thereby enhancing resilience and showcasing effective local solutions.
He also reaffirmed Tonga’s commitment to ocean governance through the Nice Ocean Action Plan and the Ocean of Peace Declaration, stating, “The ocean must not only be protected—it must be honored as a foundation of our security and our way of life.”
On domestic issues, Dr. Eke addressed the government’s efforts in protecting children online, combating drug abuse, and addressing non-communicable diseases. He noted the potential impact of leveraging trade, sports, and contributions from the Tongan diaspora for national development and unity, calling on global leaders to pursue sustainable development earnestly.
In concluding his speech, Dr. Eke highlighted the power of unity in addressing shared challenges, stating, “Our common challenges are greater than any one nation… With faith, solidarity, and collective action, we can rise above and beyond—turning trials into pathways for hope.”
This address underscores Tonga’s proactive stance in advocating for both regional and global issues, reflecting an optimistic vision for the Pacific region as it strives for cooperation and resilience amid ongoing challenges, particularly in climate action and sustainable development initiatives.