New York — On the occasion of the 80th Anniversary of the United Nations, the Prime Minister of the Kingdom of Tonga, Dr. ‘Aisake Valu Eke, joined world leaders at a high-level reception hosted by United States President Donald Trump and First Lady Melania Trump at the Lotte Hotel on Madison Avenue.
Prime Minister Eke’s face-to-face meeting with President Trump comes two months after the U.S. administration warned that Tongans could be banned from travelling to the United States if the Kingdom fails to meet certain demands.
The statement issued by the Prime Minister’s Office this morning did not provide further details regarding the meeting, nor did it clarify whether the U.S. demands were raised during the discussions.
PM Eke was attending an event that marked a significant moment in diplomatic relations, offering an opportunity to reaffirm the longstanding ties between the United States and the Kingdom of Tonga, according to a PM Office statement.
Discussions focused on strengthening partnerships in key areas including climate change, maritime security, and regional development.
Prime Minister Eke’s presence underscored Tonga’s commitment to global cooperation and its active role in addressing shared challenges through multilateral engagement.
The meeting also highlighted the importance of Pacific voices in shaping international policy, particularly in areas affecting small island developing states.
The 80th session of the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA80) brought together leaders from across the globe to reflect on the organisation’s legacy and chart a course for its future.
“At the national level, the Prime Minister informed the United Nations of the Kingdom of Tonga’s forthcoming celebration of the 150th Anniversary of the Tonga Constitution, as a profound reminder to the world of the sovereignty, unity, enduring independence, which was founded by His Late Majesty King George Tupou I,” the statement says.
“The Prime Minister reaffirmed that the celebration is not only a historic milestone for the Kingdom but a testament of the living legacy that continues to guide the nation and inspire future generations.”
