Addressing concerns about the United States government’s decision to put travel restrictions on Tongan nationals, Prime Minister Lord Fakafanua said it was an issue “that’s front of mind” for his administration.
“It’s obviously of deep concern to Tongans, especially with our large diaspora living in the United States. The connectivity with families back at home and those who are who are residents in the United States, living legally is very important to us.”
He said Tonga was “prioritising negotiations” to find a solution around U.S visa access.
“It’s unfortunate that Tonga is included in the visa ban list by the White House, which began from the first of January this year,” he said.
“But we were encouraged that conversations and high-level negotiations are definitely happening between Tonga and American officials, so we’re looking to resolve this as soon as we can,” he said.
