Tongan royals on historic visit to Fiji, strengthening ties and celebrating heritage

The Tongan King is feeling more at home after arriving in Fiji to attend the installation of one of the country’s paramount chiefs.

King Tupou VI and Queen Nanasipauʻu Tukuʻaho arrived in Suva on Tuesday ahead of their visit to Lakeba in the Lau Province for the installation of the Tui Lau, Ratu Tevita Kapaiwai Lutunauga Uluilakeba Mara, on Thursday. Ratu Tevita was bestowed the Tui Nayau title earlier on Tuesday. Both titles were held by his late father, Ratu Sir Kamisese Mara.

Upon their arrival at Nausori Airport, the Tongan royals were greeted by Fijian government officials, led by Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Finance Dr Biman Prasad.

They were then escorted to the State House, where Fiji’s Prime Minister, Sitiveni Rabuka, welcomed them. King Tupou VI inspected a 100-man guard of honour before being accorded a traditional welcome ceremony.

The King thanked Fiji's President, Ratu Naiqama Lalabalavu, and the government for their warm reception.

“I couldn't feel more at home,” he says. “Looking back at history, I can see why some Tongan ancestors chose to permanently live in Fiji.

“Tongans have a very bad history of travelling to other countries and never going back.”

The King noted how heartwarming it was to experience Fiji’s unique way of conducting traditional welcome ceremonies, accompanied by the kava ceremony.

“For me, it's an education to see how the Vanua presents itself and to see how the kava ceremony is presented here,” he says.

King Tupou VI and Queen Nanasipauʻu Tukuʻaho meets Commander of Fiji's Military Forces, Major-General Jone Kalouniwai as Fijian Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka looks on. Photo/Fiji government

“I haven't come to disturb anything or bring up any old memories in history. Thank you very much for doing me the honour, and I hope that our traditions and binding customs and common history will keep getting stronger as time progresses.”

King Tupou VI was awarded the honorary Companion of the Order of Fiji, the highest civilian honour in Fiji, presented by Ratu Naiqama. As part of his engagement at the State House, the King also held a courtesy meeting with Ratu Naiqama.

A statement from the Fijian government highlighted that the royal visit aims to strengthen bilateral relations and regional collaboration between Tonga and Fiji.

The Tongan King and Queen are received by senior Fijian government officials at Nausori Airport. Photo/Fiji government

It emphasises the deep bonds of friendship, cultural and historical ties, and a shared commitment to promoting regional peace and prosperity within the Pacific family.

The visit also presents both nations with an opportunity to deepen cooperation on shared priorities, such as climate change, economic resilience, and sustainable development.

Later in the week, King Tupou VI and Queen Nanasipau’u will travel to Lakeba for Ratu Tevita’s installation ceremony.

Watch as the Tongan royal family arrives in Fiji.

The Fijian government says the event symbolises the shared heritage and deep historical and cultural connections between Lau and Tonga.

The royal couple is scheduled to return to Tonga on Saturday.