On May 15, 2024, Hu’akavameiliku Siaosi Sovaleni, Tongan prime minister, expressed his gratitude to the Seventh-day Adventist Church during a meeting with Ted Wilson, General Conference (GC) president.

The Prime Minister gave thanks on behalf of the people of Tonga and the government for the ongoing humanitarian aid and reconstruction assistance provided in the wake of natural disasters, including the Hunga Tonga-Hunga Ha’apai volcanic eruption in 2022.

He also highlighted the strong commitment and shared values, especially in the education and health sectors.

The Prime Minister commended Wilson’s visit and emphasized the significant role that religious institutions and the government play in strengthening relationships and fostering mutual cooperation.

In response, Wilson expressed his appreciation to the Prime Minister for the opportunity to meet and discuss areas for further collaboration.

Wilson’s visit reiterated the church’s commitment to fostering understanding and building lasting relationships worldwide.

The GC president’s meeting with the Prime Minister was among a busy schedule of engagements and activities for Wilson during his visit to Tonga from May 13-16. He also had an audience with King Tupou VI and Queen Nanasipau’u, dedicated the new Tonga Mission office, attended a prayer breakfast, and took part in the Tonga 4 Christ harvest event at Beulah Adventist College, where 122 people were baptized.

After leaving Tonga, he traveled to Fiji for more events, including a groundbreaking ceremony at Fulton Adventist University College.

The original article was published on the South Pacific Division news site, Adventist Record.