Japan is preparing to open up its new embassy in the region, which will be in Tonga.
As reported by the Matangi Tonga Online, the Counsellor and Special Assistant for Southeast Asian Issues of the Embassy of Japan in Fiji, Mr. Hiroyuki Orikasa, was in Tonga to view the site of the embassy and meet with senior government officials.According to the report, Mr. Hiroyuki confirmed that 'the Government of Japan is committed to setting up an embassy in Nuku'alofa and the Government of Tonga has in return committed the fifth and top floor of the National Reserve Bank of Tonga building'.
Mr. Hiroyuki 'said that over the years Japan and Tonga have developed a history of friendship and good diplomatic relations and the Imperial family of Japan have warm relationship with the Tongan Royal Family'.
Currently, the Japanese Embassy in Suva, Fiji, represents Kiribati, Nauru, Tonga, Tuvalu and Vanuatu.