No Room for Complacency in Efforts Towards a Peaceful World

By Lagi Keresoma/

Apia, SAMOA – 25 April 2024: Prime Minister Fiamē Naomi Mata’afa said complacency should not be in the equation in the efforts for a peaceful world.

Speaking at this mornings’ ANZAC Day commemoration, Fiamē said that while Samoa and the Pacific are blessed to live in a peaceful environment, it should not lessen their focus and commitment to advocate for peace and security within the region and beyond.

Fiamē made note of the current conflicts and war-torn countries and the loss of lives and suffering people are experiencing.

“We do not have to look very far within our own region for examples on what can conceivably happen if we become complacent. We must therefore continue to heed the lessons from conflict zones and play our part in the collective world effort to try and bring peace to communities that have suffered the ravages of war.”

She said the global security landscape has become diverse and complex due to rapidly changing dynamics and competing ideologies.

In honour of the fallen soldiers
“On this momentous occasion, as we appropriately commemorate every year, we honour and remember the lives of men and women who devoted and sacrificed so much to defend our freedom and way of life we enjoy,” said Fiamē.

The Head of State, Tuimalealiifano Vaaleto’a Sualauvi 11 leading the wreath laying ceremony for the fallen soldiers.

It is also a precious moment to remember that even now in many parts of the world, people continue to wake up to daunting realities of war-torn zones, and loss of loved ones due to wars and localised conflicts.

She acknowledges the service and contribution rendered by every country to resolve conflicts and maintain peace around the world.

Samoa has also contributed through peace keeping missions to different parts of the world including the Pacific region.

“The generations of past men and women who have served to defend freedom and bring peace, those who now carry this massive responsibility, and those to come, would always deserve to be honoured and to be 3/3 remembered for the sacrifices they have made, and will continue to make for the sake of human-kind and our world,” said Fiamē.

Lest We Forget
The dawn service started with a parade from the Return Service Association (RSA) to the Nelson Memorial Town Clock where Reverend Elder Palemia Reupena of the Congregational Christian Church of Samalaeulu conducted the service.

This was followed by the tributes to the fallen soldiers in Flanders Fields, Turkey recited by Australia’s High Commissioner, William Robinson.

The Ode of Remembrance was recited by New Zealand’s High Commissioner, Si’alei Van Toor followed by the laying of wreaths on the two ANZAC memorials in town.

Young students taking part in the remembrance ceremony.