NUKU'ALOFA: Antony Blinken on Wednesday became the first United States secretary of state to visit Tonga, dedicating a new US embassy there and warning South Pacific nations about the perils of "predatory" Chinese investment.

As part of a drive to build Washington's influence across the region and to counter Beijing's growing clout, Blinken touched down in the capital Nuku'alofa on a diplomatic charm offensive.

Premium + Digital Edition

Ad-free access


P 80 per month
(billed annually at P 960)
  • Unlimited ad-free access to website articles
  • Limited offer: Subscribe today and get digital edition access for free (accessible with up to 3 devices)

TRY FREE FOR 14 DAYS
See details
See details