U.S. DEPARTMENT OF STATE
Office of the Spokesman
November 25, 2010
STATEMENT BY PHILIP J. CROWLEY
ASSISTANT SECRETARY OF STATE FOR PUBLIC AFFAIRS
Tonga's First Popular Majority Parliamentary Election
The United States congratulates the government and the people of Tonga on today's historic elections, and commends His
Majesty King George Tupou V for his committed efforts to bring about genuine democratic reform. Today's election of the
nation's first popular majority parliament marks a watershed moment for the Tongan people, clearly demonstrating that
the democratic value of people having a say in their own government applies across cultures and regions.
The United States applauds the Tongan people as they advance further on their democratic journey, and looks forward to
continuing and strengthening its engagement with the government of Tonga and its citizens.
ENDS