President Tommy Remengesau Jr. has extended Palau’s condolences following the passing of Sir Toke Talagi, the former long time leader of Niue.
“ My condolences to the people of Niue on the passing of Sir Toke Talagi, the former Prime Minister of Niue,” the president said in a statement posted on the Office of the President Facebook page.
“Sir Toke was a dedicated public servant, including serving as Niue’s Prime Minister for over a decade, and it was my privilege to have known him through our work together in the Pacific Islands Forum and other regional groupings.”
Talagi , has served four years term as premier.
He has spent the most time in New Zealand for medical treatment.
In a statement, the government of Niue said Sir Toke is a dedicated leader to Niue and his commitment to “A prosperous Niue – Niue ke Monuina.”
The statement said the Sir Toke was a strong advocate of the promotion of the “Niuean language and education of our young people, the future leaders of Niue.”
Niue is a self-governing state in a free association with New Zealand.