U.S. Statement on Tonga's First Parliamentary Election

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

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