Admiral Samuel Paparo, Commander of the U.S. Pacific Fleet visited Tonga from September 16–17 to enhance the U.S.-Tonga partnership and affirm U.S. commitment to working with Tonga on shared challenges and objectives in the region.    

“The visit to Tonga reaffirms the United States’ commitment to our deepening relationship and partnership for a free and open Indo Pacific.  Together, we will address common challenges through our shared values to ensure the security and wellbeing of the citizens we all serve,” said Admiral Paparo.    

While in Tonga, Admiral Paparo met with Deputy Prime Minister Honorable Samiu Vaipulu (Acting PM) and Deputy Chief of Defense Staff for His Majesty’s Armed Forces, Captain Sione Ulakai.  His visit follows Deputy Secretary of State Wendy Sherman’s visit to Tonga in August 2022, reflecting the U.S. government’s ongoing commitment to expanding U.S.-Tongan cooperation on regional security, economic and development issues.