Tongan Navy arrives ahead of Queen’s visit

LuiThe Tongan Navy patrol boat has arrived in Fiji waters ahead of Queen

Nanasipauʻu Tukuʻaho’s visit to Tubou, Lakeba.

The Tongan Queen will be here for the traditional installation of Ratu Tevita Kapaiwai Lutunauga Uluilakeba Mara as Tui Lau.

The vessel, Voea Ngahau Siliva, berthed at the Republic of Fiji Navy’s Stanley Brown Base in Suva on Wednesday morning, following proper diplomatic clearance procedures facilitated by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.

Queen Nanasipau’u and her husband King Tupou VI, are scheduled to make a State visit to Fiji from July 8 to 12.

Fiji Navy Commander Commodore Timoci Natuva, confirmed that the Fiji Navy supported the Tongan naval presence through vessel clearance and berthing arrangements.

“As is standard protocol, appropriate diplomatic clearance was granted, and the Navy is providing support such as berthing space,” Commander Natuva said.

Currently, only one Tongan naval vessel is expected for the visit, and no further vessels have been confirmed at this stage.

While no formal joint naval engagements are scheduled between the two Pacific neighbours, the visiting Tongan crew presented their sevusevu to members of the Fiji Navy upon arrival.

“This is part of the usual courtesy extended between Pacific naval forces. We’ve done this with other navies as well when they visit our waters,” Commander Natuva said.

“In terms of broader security and logistics, the Republic of Fiji Military Forces (RFMF) is providing support through its engineers already deployed to Lakeba. Should there be further operational needs, the Fiji Navy

stands ready to assist upon directive from the RFMF headquarters.”

Commander Natuva added that maritime security during the royal visit will primarily fall under the coordination of the iTaukei Affairs Board and the

Fiji Police Force, depending on the requirements on the island.

“All visiting foreign naval vessels entering Fiji’s Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ) must obtain diplomatic clearance. This is coordinated through the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and shared with all relevant border agencies,” he said.

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