China Strengthens Ties with Tonga

In a significant move reflecting China’s growing influence across the Asia-Pacific, President Xi Jinping pledged fresh investment in the South Pacific island nation of Tonga during a high-profile meeting with King Tupou VI in Beijing on November 25, 2025. The meeting, held at the Great Hall of the People, emphasized deepening bilateral relations, economic cooperation, and strategic partnerships in a region increasingly contested by global powers.

King Tupou VI’s visit highlights the importance of Tonga—a small nation of approximately 108,000 people—in the geopolitical contest between China and Western countries, particularly Australia and the United States. Tonga’s strategic location, voting power in the United Nations, and access to valuable seabed mineral resources make it a focal point for foreign investment and diplomatic influence.

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China’s Commitment to Tonga’s Development

President Xi expressed China’s continued commitment to Tonga’s economic and social development, although no specific financial figure was disclosed. “China and Tonga are true friends who have stood together through thick and thin,” Xi said, emphasizing that Beijing will support Tonga in safeguarding its national independence and sovereignty, regardless of international changes.

The agreement between the two nations covers multiple sectors, including:

• Trade and investment
• Agriculture and fisheries
• Tourism development
• Climate resilience programs

State media reports indicate that China aims to provide long-term strategic support to Tonga while fostering sustainable economic growth.

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Tonga’s Rising Debt to China

Tonga remains heavily indebted to China’s Export-Import Bank (EXIM Bank), with outstanding loans dating back nearly two decades. According to World Bank data, Tonga owes approximately $112 million to Beijing. These repayments now represent nearly 48% of Tonga’s total external debt, making them a central focus of Tonga’s 2025 national budget.

Much of this debt stems from loans used to rebuild Tonga’s central business district following the 2006 riots, which now account for two-thirds of the country’s debt repayments. As a result, Tonga has sought assistance from Australia for debt restructuring while relying on aid from Canberra and Washington to finance infrastructure and climate resilience projects.

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Belt and Road Initiative in the Pacific

Tonga officially joined China’s Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) in 2018, positioning itself as a key partner for Beijing’s regional infrastructure and economic projects. China’s support is part of a broader strategy to showcase model countries under the BRI framework, providing financial assistance and technical expertise to strengthen strategic alliances.

During the Beijing meeting, Xi and Tupou witnessed the signing of a framework agreement aimed at upgrading economic ties, facilitating “flexible and practical negotiations” on trade and investment issues, and enhancing bilateral cooperation.

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Support from Western Nations

While China’s influence grows, Tonga continues to receive support from Australia and the United States. Australia allocated A$27.1 million ($17.49 million) in development assistance in 2025 to help Tonga build resilience against climate change and rising sea levels. The United States provided $4.1 million in 2024, highlighting Tonga’s strategic importance in the Pacific region.

The combination of debt obligations and foreign aid makes Tonga a focal point for competing geopolitical interests, with China leveraging its investments to secure both economic influence and political goodwill.

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Conclusion

China’s renewed investment pledge in Tonga reflects a calculated effort to deepen influence in the Pacific amid rising debt concerns. The meeting between Xi Jinping and King Tupou VI underscores the growing competition between China and Western nations in the region. With strategic resources, international voting power, and climate vulnerability, Tonga remains at the heart of global attention, balancing relations between major powers while pursuing sustainable development.