U.S. Secretary of the Navy Ray Mabus is making an official visit to Tonga May 9-10.

Secretary Mabus is scheduled to meet with King Tupou VI and other government and military officials to discuss bilateral and multilateral security issues and efforts that increase maritime security.

In a statement the Embassy of the United States in Suva said the visit reinforces the importance placed on partnership between the United States and Tonga. Additionally, Mabus will express the United States' appreciation to the Tongans for their friendship and active cooperation in supporting international security efforts in Afghanistan. “Tonga is one of our closest partners in this incredibly important region,” Mabus said. “Tonga's military is one of the most highly trained regional militaries and I look forward to discussing additional opportunities to work together in the future.

The Secretary of the Navy conducts all business matters for the two uniformed services that make up the Department of the Navy, the Navy and the Marine Corps, and implements policies and programs to support the national security objectives established by U.S. President Barack Obama or Secretary of Defense Chuck Hagel. Additionally, Mabus oversees the construction and repair of naval ships, aircraft, and facilities. He is responsible for an annual budget in excess of U.S. $170 billion and provides leadership for almost 900,000 people.