Pacific / Tonga

Sport: Tonga says PNG support will help Pacific Games prep

13:35 pm on 23 February 2017

The Tonga Prime Minister says financial support from Papua New Guinea will ensure the country is ready to host the Pacific Games in two years time.

The PNG Government has confirmed just over $US15 million has been set aside to support Tonga's hosting of the 2019 Games, including the refurbishment of Teufaiva National Stadium in Nuku'alofa.

Teufaiva National Stadium in Nuku'alofa. Photo: Breakthrough Church Tonga

PNG promised to assist Tonga last year, following a visit to the Kingdom by the Sports Minister, Justin Tkatchenko.

Tonga PM 'Akilisi Pohiva said the contribution would help their efforts.

Tongan Prime Minister 'Akilisi Pohiva. Photo: RNZI/Alex Perrottet

"It is the responsibility of the Government to get the money for the preparation for the sport," he said.

"However that amount contributed by the [Papua] New Government is to me...is more than enough or is enough to support our preparation for the sport."