THE New Zealand Minister of Foreign Affairs, Hon Murray McCully arrived in Tonga last night, July 6, for a one-day visit that coincides with 40 years of diplomatic relations between New Zealand and Tonga.

The Minister will meet Tonga's leaders and express New Zealand's long-standing support for Tonga's decision to pursue democratic reform.

Sean Torbit, the Second Secretary at the New Zealand High Commission in Nuku'alofa said that the Minister would also reconfirm New Zealand's commitment to assisting with Tonga's economic stability and development.

Today, July 7, the Foreign Minister will have an audience with HM King George Tupou V and meet with Tongan Prime Minister Hon Dr Feleti Sevele, as well as Cabinet Ministers, People's Representatives to the Tonga Legislative Assembly and the CEO of Tonga Power Ltd., Peter McGill.

A joint press conference with Mr McCully and Dr Sevele will be held at the Cabinet office this afternoon.

A reception to celebrate 40 years of diplomatic relations between Tonga and New Zealand will be held at the New Zealand official residence this evening, before Mr McCully departs Tonga on Thursday morning.

Hon Murray McCully is also the Minister for Sport and Recreation and Minister for the Rugby World Cup to be hosted by New Zealand in 2011.