On June 11, Ambassador Liu Weimin visited the island of ʻEua and attended the opening ceremony for the refurbished laboratory of Nui’eiki Hospital, which was funded by the Chinese Embassy in Tonga. Present at the event were Dr. Reynold ʻOfanoa, Chief Executive Officer of the Ministry of Health of Tonga, Mr. Tu’ipulotu Lauaki, Government Representative for the island of 'Eua, members of the 6th Chinese Medical Team to Tonga, and representatives of the Nui’eiki Hospital.

Ambassador Liu said that the Chinese Embassy has always regarded enhancing people’s health and well-being as a priority in its cooperation with Tonga. The upgraded laboratory will enable medical staff provide more timely and accurate diagnosis and treatment for local patients. China stands ready to work with Tonga to continuously improve primary-level medical and health services and advance the goal of universal health coverage.

Dr. ʻOfanoa said that China is Tonga’s genuine friend, and Tonga will make full use of the new laboratory to serve people’s health and further strengthen the bonds of friendship and cooperation between the two sides. Mr. Lauaki expressed gratitude for the Chinese Embassy’s generous assistance, saying that the new laboratory will bring lasting benefits to the people of ʻEua.

Following the ceremony, Ambassador Liu conducted an on-site inspection of the proposed site for the ʻEua Green Energy Project and warmly greeted the staff of the Tonga Branch of Jiangsu International Economic-Technical Cooperation Group who are working in ‘Eua.