The European Union says it stands ready to assist Tonga as it implements the Convention to Eliminate All Forms of Discrimination Against Women.
Tonga announced last week it would ratify the Convention after years of refusing to do so on the grounds that it cut the country's cultural heritage.
The Pacific EU office in Suva says it welcomes Tonga's decision and is looking forward to the completion of national procedures to ratify the key human rights instrument.
It says the decision marks a significant step in promoting gender equality and in recognising women's contribution to Tongan society.