The Prime Minister of Tonga, Hu'akavameiliku, has congratulated Fiji's new Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka.
Rabuka was elected Prime Minister by the Fijian Parliament and defeated former Prime Minister Josaia Voreqe Bainimarama by 28 votes to 27 on Saturday.
Hu'akavameiliku said in a tweet that the Tongan government looks forward to working closely with Rabuka and the Fijian Coalition government on matters of interest to both countries.
"I would like to congratulate Hon Rabuka on his election as Fijian Prime Minister and I Look forward to meeting him soon and having discussions on matters of national interest to both countries," Hon Hu'akavameiliku said.
He also paid tribute to former Prime Minister Voreqe Bainimarama for leading Fiji through some of the most challenging times the country has seen, especially in the last two years of going through the Covid-19 epidemic.
Hu'akavameiliku added that Tonga and Fiji are close neighbours and traditionally enjoy a lot of ties a statement said.
The new Fijian Coalition government was sworn in Saturday following the country's general election.
The People's Alliance Party, National Federation Party and SODELPA have joined to form the new government.
Fiji First, which ruled Fiji for the last 16 years, is now in Opposition.
Photo Fiji Parliament Caption: Fiji's new Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka