9 September 2011: The Secretariat of the Pacific Community (SPC) has announced that it will open an office in Nukualofa, Tonga. The new office will aim to strengthen SPC’s ability to deliver technical advice and assistance to the country.

The Government of Tonga and SPC signed a hosting agreement on 9 September 2011. SPC says the new office will ensure SPC services are effectively targeted towards Tonga’s national priorities. Currently, SPC provides assistance to Tonga in fisheries resource management, improved trade in agricultural products, education, health, maritime transport, information and communication technologies, as well as cross-cutting support including on adaption to climate change. [SPC Press Release]