JMSDF “OHSUMI” delivered additional relief supplies to Tonga

2022/2/10
Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force (JMSDF) “OHSUMI” arrived with additional relief supplies from Japan to assist the people of Tonga on Wednesday, 9th February 2022. H.E. Mr. MUNENAGA, Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of Japan to the Kingdom of Tonga welcomed the “OHSUMI” at Vuna Wharf with the staff of the Embassy and JICA Office.

This is the first visit by the Japan Maritime Self-Defense’s ship to Tonga in our history, whereas the Japan Air Self- Defense Force’s aircrafts have delivered emergency relief supplies four times already after the unprecedented disaster of the Hunga Tonga Hunga Ha’apai volcanic eruption and tsunami.

Given the situation of COVID-19 pandemic, OHSUMI unloaded all cargos at Vuna wharf in a strictly contactless manner and all cargos will undergo 72 hours of quarantine. The relief supplies including 10t water, 60 high-pressure cleaners, and other equipment to support Tonga’s restoration efforts from the disaster. OHSUMI carries two Japan Ground Self-Defense Force’s CH-47 helicopters and will support the Government of Tonga’s emergency distribution plan to the outer islands by delivering drinking water to ‘Eua, Ha’apai, and Vava’u.

The Government of Japan is pleased to be able to support the people and Government of Tonga through the operation of OHSUMI as well as Japan Air Self -Defense’s aircrafts.

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