Samoa may gain from Tonga’s loss in pulling out as the host of the next Pacific Games.
A spokesperson for Tongan PM Akilisi Poiva has told the Kaniva news website that the Pohiva has taken the advice of the World Bank and decided to pull out and save the country from making a costly mistake.
The World Bank issued a report last week which highlights the economic difficulties Tonga could face if it continues to host the 2019 Pacific Games.
The President of the Pacific Games Council Vidya Lakhan is quoted by the Fiji Times saying he’s awaiting confirmation from Tonga and was expecting an official statement from the kingdom.
Tongan’s decision would mean countries like Samoa have the chance to bid for the Games.
Samoa has all the facilities and has hosted two successful Pacific Games, one in 1983 and the other in 2007.
