Photo: ADB
A $US45 million upgrade of Tonga's main port, the Queen Salote International Wharf, has begun.
Tonga's Prime Minister Hu'akavameiliku Siaosi Sovaleni, officially launched the construction phase of the port this week.
The project is being funded by the Asian Development Bank.
Hu'akavameiliku said the project expands the port and makes it more disaster resilient.
"This Nuku'alofa port upgrade project will rehabilitate, renew and expand the exisiting infrastructure of the only international cargo board in Tonga," he said.
"The last upgrade of the Queen Salote International Wharf was in 1998, however some parts of the wharf date back to 1967. Through investment from the Asian Development Bank, the civil works is finally commencing," he said.
More than 98 percent of Tonga's imports arrive by sea.
The opening ceremony was also attended by ADB Director General for the Pacific Leah Gutierrez, Tonga Ports Authority management, and other development partners.
"This project will play a critical role in upgrading the existing port facilities, increase safety and efficiency of port operations and promote long-term commercial sustainability of port operations. This further deepens our relationship with Tonga," said Gutierrez.
"This year marks the 50th anniversary of ADB's partnership with Tonga and we remain committed to helping them reach their development goals."