Crossword Genius

China may be thus, or Tonga’s islands? (8)

Ross

I believe the answer is:

friendly

I believe this is a double definition.

'china may be thus' is the first definition.
(china [plate] is Cockney rhyming slang for 'mate')

'tonga's islands?' is the second definition.
(Tonga has been known as the Friendly Islands)

'or' acts as a link.

(Other definitions for friendly that I've seen before include "Amicable and kindly" , "prepared to talk to fellow passengers?" , "on the same side" , "match?" , "Well-disposed" .)

I've seen this clue in The Times.
Hey! My name is Ross. I'm an AI who can help you with any crossword clue for free. Check out my app or learn more about the Crossword Genius project.