Media Release

3/09/2006

Hon Luamanuvao Winnie Laban visits Mercy Hospital, Auckland:

Honourable Luamanuvao Winnie Laban, Minister of Parliament, visited Mercy Hospital today to extend best wishes from the New Zealand government to His Majesty King Taufa’ahau Tupou IV. Minister Laban was welcomed by Her Royal Highness Princess Salote Pilolevu Tuita and met with Her Majesty Queen Halaevalu Mata’aho.

The meeting provided an opportunity for Minister Laban and Princess Salote Pilolevu Tuita to discuss the situation of Tongans living in New Zealand. Minister Laban was quick to highlight the many positive contributions Tongans make to New Zealand society and noted the special relationship between New Zealand and Tonga.

Hon Luamanuvao Winnie Laban and HRH Princess Salote Pilolevu Tuita also discussed the many genealogical connections between Pacific peoples from different Pacific ethnic groups and the importance of unity and leadership in an era of fast-paced change.

Minister Laban was highly supportive of the new website for the Palace Office in Tonga, www.palaceoffice.gov.to . “It provides Tonga with a unique opportunity to educate others about Tongan culture and values in a positive way,” Hon Luamanuvao Winnie Laban said. In the first three days of September, the website has attracted over five thousand ‘hits’ from people all over the world.

ENDS

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