Concerns over Chinese influence in Tonga

Since 2006, China has committed around 2.5 billion dollars in loans to countries in the Pacific region.

A Chinese flag flies outside the Chinese Embassy in Nuku'alofa, Tonga Source: AAP

Tonga's debts to China are the equivalent of about a quarter of the country's Gross Domestic Product, [[GDP]] which has sparked concerns China's influence could threatens the country's future.