Samoa’s Overseas Diplomats Meet with the Head of State

Apia, Samoa – 01 November 2024 – The heads of Samoa’s diplomatic missions overseas met with the Head of State, Afioga Tuimalealiʻifano Va’aleto’a Sualauvi II this week, following the successful hosting of CHOGM.

During the meeting, the diplomats shared their personal experiences and the memorable stories from hosting CHOGM, fostering a sense of camaraderie among Samoa’s overseas diplomatic representatives.

HE Fa’alavaau Perina Jacqueline Sila Tualaulelei, Samoa’s Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary to Japan, underscored the meeting’s significance.

“This is the first time a meeting of this nature has taken place with our Head of Missions and the Head of State and I am thankful to God for such an opportunity,” she said.

The Head of State offered his blessings and reassured the ambassadors that they remain in his prayers as they navigate their duties abroad to fulfill their roles with dedication and purpose in service to Samoa.

Some of the diplomats included Samoa’s High Commissioner to Australia, Ms Hinauri Petana, and the Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary to China, Luamanuvae Albert Mariner, Aliioaiga Feturi Elisaia, High Commissioner to Fiji and Fata Kaio heading the American Samoa mission among others.

The diplomats also reflected on the challenges and successes faced in their respective missions, highlighting the importance of solidarity among Samoan diplomats.

Samoa needs to capitalize on the prominence generated through the successful hosting of CHOGM, to strengthen its presence on the international stage; and calls for the commitment and unity among its diplomatic missions to achieve maximum benefits for Samoa.

The diplomats were called to assist especially with protocol and other elements for the hosting of CHOGM.