Condolence Letter from Minister for Foreign Affairs Dr Vivian Balakrishnan to Tonga Minister for Foreign Affairs Fekitamoeloa Katoa ‘Utoikamanu on the Volcanic Eruption and Tsunami in Tonga

Minister for Foreign Affairs Dr Vivian Balakrishnan has written to Tonga Minister for Foreign Affairs Fekitamoeloa Katoa ‘Utoikamanu to express his condolences on the volcanic eruption and tsunami that struck Tonga on 15 January 2022.  In his letter, Minister Balakrishnan indicated that the Singapore Government will contribute US$50,000 through the Singapore Red Cross (SRC) to support Tonga in its relief and recovery efforts. This contribution will supplement the SRC’s pledge of S$50,000 to the Tongan Red Cross and serve as seed money for the public fundraising appeal by the SRC.

The text of Minister Balakrishnan’s letter is appended.

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Letter from Minister for Foreign Affairs Dr Vivian Balakrishnan to Minister for Foreign Affairs Honourable Fekitamoeloa Katoa ‘Utoikamanu

25January 2022

Honourable Fekitamoeloa Katoa ‘Utoikamanu

Minister for Foreign Affairs and Minister for Tourism

Kingdom of Tonga

Dear Minister ‘Utoikamanu,

            I am saddened by the loss of lives and devastation caused by the volcanic eruption and tsunami in Tonga.  I extend my deepest condolences to the families of the victims and the people of Tonga who have been affected by this unprecedented disaster. 

            The Singapore Government will contribute US$50,000 through the Singapore Red Cross to support Tonga in its relief and recovery efforts.  Singapore stands in solidarity with Tonga during this difficult time.I am confident that the people of Tonga will overcome this disaster with strength and fortitude.

Yours sincerely,

DR VIVIAN BALAKRISHNAN