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Tonga Joins the 14th UN Committee on Global Geospatial Information Management

Nuku'alofa, 9 August 2024 – The Ministry of Lands, Survey, Planning and Natural Resources is proud to announce the active participation of the Kingdom of Tonga in the Fourteenth Session of the United Nations Committee of Experts on Global Geospatial Information Management (UN-GGIM), held from 7-9 August 2024 at the United Nations Headquarters in New York.

The UN-GGIM was established to provide leadership to ensure that geospatial information and resources are coordinated, accessible, sustained, and leveraged by Member States and society for sustainable social, economic, and environmental development. The Committee serves as a vital forum for coordination and dialogue among Member States and relevant international organizations, focusing on enhanced cooperation in global geospatial information management. This cooperation is crucial for achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and strengthening the United Nations Integrated Geospatial Information Framework (UN-IGIF).

The Fourteenth Session brings together designated representatives, senior executives, and experts from national geospatial information authorities of Member States, alongside geospatial information experts from international organizations, the UN system, and relevant stakeholders. This annual session aims to enhance coordination and coherence in global geospatial information management, supporting the accelerated implementation of the Committee's norms, frameworks, principles, and guidelines according to national circumstances.

The Tonga delegation, led by Mr. Taaniela Kula, CEO of the Ministry of Lands, Survey, Planning, and Natural Resources, included Ms. Halalilika 'Etika, Director of Lands and Geospatial Information Services Division, and Mr. Viliami Folau, Director of Surveying Services Division. Their participation underscores Tonga's commitment to leveraging geospatial information for sustainable development and integrating these resources within national, regional, and global policy frameworks and development agendas.

During the session, the Tonga delegation will engage in various side events and meetings related to the substantive work of the Committee of Experts at the global level. These events, convened from 5-9 August 2024, provide a platform for knowledge exchange and collaboration on the latest advancements and practices in geospatial information management.

The Kingdom of Tonga remains dedicated to contributing to the global discourse on geospatial information management, recognizing its critical role in driving sustainable development and resilience. The participation in the Fourteenth Session of UN-GGIM highlights Tonga's ongoing efforts to enhance its geospatial capabilities and integrate these resources into its national development strategies.

For more information, please contact: Ministry of Lands, Survey, Planning, and Natural Resources Government of the Kingdom of Tonga Phone: +676 7401301 Email: info@lands.gov.to Website: www.lands.gov.to