Arrival of TRH The Duke and Duchess of Gloucester

The late King forged many important diplomatic and foreign ties abroad for Tonga.  As the late Monarch Lies in State, dignitaries are arriving from overseas.  The Duke and Duchess of Gloucester represent Her Majesty the Queen Elizabeth II at the Late King’s funeral.  They arrived at Fua’amotu Airport at 10.50am this morning on NZ66, greeted by two of the Late King’s children, HRH Princess Pilolevu and HRH Prince ‘Ulukalala Lavaka Ata and the Prime Minister of Tonga, Hon. Dr Feleti Sevele.

The Tongan Royal Family has had a special relationship with the British Monarchy for over 200 years.  The first ‘Treaty of Friendship’ was established with Queen Victoria and signed on 29 November 1879.  This afforded Tonga the unique position of a Protected State.  The relationship of respect between the British Monarchy and the Tongan Monarchy continues today, and builds on a strong historical alliance. 

Queen Elizabeth 2 & King Taufa'ahau

In 1953, the Late King’s mother, Queen Salote Tupou III brought the Kingdom of Tonga to worldwide attention when she refused to put up the roof of her carriage, as it began raining during the coronation procession of Queeen Elizabeth II.  This was an act of extreme respect from one Monarch to another.  The Queen’s act of humility is remembered even now. 

House of British High Commissioner

Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II conveyed a message of condolence acknowledging that, “King Tupou served the Kingdom and people of Tonga with dedication and dignity throughout his life.  His leadership and compassion will long be remembered.”