Modi congratulates Tonga's newly elected PM

Prime Minister Narendra Modi Monday congratulated Tonga's newly elected Prime Minister Akilisi Pohiva.

Tonga is an archipelago in the South Pacific Ocean.

"Please accept my warm congratulations and best wishes on your election as the prime minister of the Kingdom of Tonga. India deeply values the close relationship with Tonga, which has grown in intensity over the years," Modi wrote in a letter to Pohiva.

"I have great appreciation for our ties with the pacific region, which is why India recently hosted the Forum for India-Pacific Islands Cooperation in Suva, Fiji. We are planning to host the next edition of the Forum in India later this year, which I hope you will be able to attend," Modi said.

The prime minister also wished the people of Tonga on the occasion. "I wish to convey my good wishes for your personal health and well-being, and for the progress and prosperity of the friendly people of Tonga."