The Ministry of Meteorology, Energy, Information, Disaster Management, Environment, Climate Change and Communications (MEIDECC) today officially opened a national Talanoa session on the proposed Cable Protection Zone (CPZ) Policy for the Kingdom of Tonga.

The session, held at the Tano’a International Hotel, brought together government ministries, development partners, private sector representatives, and industry experts to discuss safeguarding Tonga’s submarine telecommunications cables—critical infrastructure that underpins the nation’s digital economy, disaster response, health, education, and connectivity to the world.

 

In his opening remarks, Mr. Sione Pulotu Akauola, CEO for MEIDECC, emphasized that submarine cables are vital national assets and that prevention of damage is far more effective and less costly than repair. He highlighted that a CPZ is an internationally recognized mechanism to reduce risks from activities such as anchoring, trawling, and seabed disturbance, thereby strengthening Tonga’s digital resilience and investor confidence.

 

Mr. Akauola also acknowledged the support of the Government of Australia, through the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade (DFAT), whose partnership has enabled this important dialogue.

 

The Talanoa session underscores Tonga’s commitment to inclusive, evidence-based policymaking that balances technical, legal, and community considerations. Insights gathered will inform the next steps in developing a practical and enforceable Cable Protection Zone Policy to protect Tonga’s digital future.

 

ENDS