On 16 July, H.E Mr. Liu Weimin, Chinese Ambassador to Tonga published an article named “The China-Aided Wind Farm Project, A Milestone in Green Cooperation Between China and Tonga” in Tongan media outlet “Tonga Independent”, to promote China’s philosophy and achievements in green development, and articulate China’s commitment to working with the international community, so as to build a cleaner world and share a sustainable future. The full article is as follows:

On 14th July, the China-aided Wind Farm Project was officially commissioned. His Majesty King Tupou VI’s gracious presence gave greater significance to the ceremony. This project not only symbolizes another milestone of the cooperation between China and Tonga in the area of green energy and sustainable development, but also stands as a testament to China’s unwavering commitment to green development.

The Wind Farm Project Paves the Way for Tonga’s Green Future:

The wind farm project is consisted of three 750 kilowatt wind turbines, a 11kilovolt switch station, and the supporting transmission infrastructure. It is supplying clean electricity to Tonga's national grid, by generating over 2.8 million kilowatt-hours of electricity so far, accounting for approximately 3.8% of Tonga's total annual supply, or 25% of the annual renewable energy supply. This will significantly alleviate the long-standing electricity shortage in Tonga, playing a crucial role in ensuring a stable power supply for the country's development, and aligning with the ambitious Tonga Energy Road Map, which targets 70% renewable energy by 2030, 100% by 2035.

China’s Green Leadership:

China has always been a staunch advocate for green energy and climate action. As the world’s largest producer of renewable energy, China has made remarkable achievements in combating climate change. By the end of 2024, China’s installed capacity of renewable energy exceeded 1,889 gigawatts, accounting for more than 40% of the global total. China has also pledged to peak carbon emissions by 2030 and achieve carbon neutrality by 2060, demonstrating our unwavering commitment to a sustainable future.

In the Pacific region, China has been actively supporting small island developing states (SIDS) in their transition to renewable energy and climate resilience. We have offered technical assistance, capacity building, and financial support to help our Pacific friends tackle the challenges of climate change.

Through the South-South Cooperation Initiative on Climate Change, China has provided and mobilized over 177 billion yuan, which is equivalent to 58 billion Pa'anga, in project funds since 2016 to support developing countries, including those in the South Pacific, in their efforts to combat climate change.

New Initiative: China joins hands with Pacific Island countries to address climate change and promote sustainable development

From May 28 to 29, 2025, the Third China-Pacific Island Countries Foreign Ministers' Meeting was successfully held. During the meeting, China announced the Initiative on deepening cooperation with Pacific Island Countries on combating climate change. China firmly supports Pacific Island countries in addressing climate change through sustainable development, fully recognizing the vulnerability of their socio-economic development in the face of the climate crisis. To this end, China announced an additional funding of 2 million US dollars to further expand cooperation with island nations in areas such as clean energy, agriculture, fisheries, marine conservation, low-carbon infrastructure, low-carbon tourism, and disaster prevention and mitigation. This initiative aims to assist Pacific Island countries in optimizing their energy structures, promoting industrial upgrading, and enhancing their capacity to achieve the United Nations 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development and its Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), enabling the countries to better respond to the challenges of climate change.

In the next three years, China will implement 100 ‘small yet smart’ projects at the grassroots level in Pacific Island countries, focusing on empowering local communities to improve resilience against climate change. These efforts reflect China's steadfast commitment to fostering inclusive and sustainable development in the region, ensuring that no one is left behind in our collective pursuit of a greener and more resilient future.

Tonga has been proactive in addressing climate change and promoting renewable energy and made significant strides. Moreover, Tonga’s commitment to the Paris Agreement and its leadership in regional institution, such as the Pacific Islands Forum, are commendable. These efforts not only contribute to global climate governance but also inspire other nations to take bold actions.

Conclusion:

The China-aided Wind Farm Project is more than a project, it is a symbol of what can be achieved when we collaborate for the greater good. As China continues to deepen ties with Tonga and other Pacific Islands countries, our goal remains clear: leveraging green energy to build resilience, drive development, and safeguard our planet for future generations.

China’s journey in green development is one of innovation, dedication, and action. It is a story of turning ambitious goals into tangible results both at home and abroad. In the fight against climate change, China stands ready to work hand in hand with all nations to prove that a sustainable, low-carbon future is not just possible, but within reach. Together, we can harness the power of green energy to build a brighter, more resilient world for all.