He said the Prime Minister was just made aware of a World Bank report last week which highlights the economic difficulties Tonga would face if it continues to host the Games.
The Prime Minister has taken the advice and decided to pull out and save the country from making a costly mistake, the spokesperson said.
But Tonga would continue renovating facilities and maintenance it has started to prepare the athletes for the Games including the renovation of the Teufaiva national stadium, Tonga High School and Atele Indoor Stadium as well as the golf course.
