Crown Prince Tupouto’a ‘Ulukalala stated that Tonga’s people are its most valuable asset at the National Development Summit 2025. He emphasized the need for quality education, healthcare, and livelihoods to stimulate development. The summit aims to assess past achievements and formulate future strategies under the Tonga Strategic Development Framework III.
During a national development summit, Crown Prince Tupouto’a ‘Ulukalala emphasized that Tonga’s most valuable asset for future progress is its people. He highlighted the necessity of providing access to quality education, healthcare, and livelihoods to harness this potential effectively. The summit, known as “The National Development Summit 2025,” attracted over 200 attendees and was held at the Fa’onelua Convention Center in Nuku’alofa, with live broadcasts for broader public engagement.
The Crown Prince opened the summit by reflecting on Tonga’s development from 2015 to 2025 under the Tonga Strategic Development Framework II and the need for strategies for the forthcoming TSDF III for 2026-2036. His message centered on creating a resilient Tonga through transformative actions that prioritize collaboration, responsive leadership, and strategic measures to enhance the well-being of the Tongan populace.
He underscored the resilience of the Tongan community, particularly in the face of natural disasters and challenges such as hurricanes and the pandemic, affirming that the people’s capacity and courage are vital for executing effective development strategies. He reiterated that addressing the needs of the nation’s population is paramount, urging empowerment across diverse groups, including women, youth, and those with disabilities, to promote community-driven growth.
The upcoming TSDF III will take a people-centered approach to national development, focusing on enhancing the welfare of the Tongan citizens. The summit brings together various stakeholders including the Prime Minister, Cabinet members, and development partners to engage in constructive discussions regarding future development strategies.
The four-day summit featured multiple sessions, with live streaming on the Prime Minister’s Facebook page to facilitate public interaction. Discussions initiated by the Prime Minister aimed to review the past decade’s development achievements and the prospects ahead. Notable panelists shared insights and experts will address topics ranging from economic development to education and cultural preservation throughout the week.
The National Development Summit 2025, as inaugurated by Crown Prince Tupouto’a ‘Ulukalala, emphasizes the importance of empowering the Tongan people as the cornerstone for national development. The discussions reflect a concerted effort to strategize for the future following a decade of challenges. With a focus on community engagement and a commitment to improving quality of life, the framework lays a foundation for a resilient Tonga in the coming years.
Original Source: matangitonga.to
