In a ceremony held this morning at the official residence of the Head of State of Samoa, His Excellency Mr. William Brown Toganivalu presented his Letter of Credence to Afioga Tuimalealiifano Vaaletoa Sualauvi II. This event marks Mr. Toganivalu’s formal accreditation as the High Commissioner of Fiji to Samoa, with his residence in Suva, Fiji.
The diplomatic relationship between Samoa and Fiji dates back to 1974. Over the years, the two nations have maintained a strong bond rooted in their shared history, cultural heritage, and mutual respect. During the credential ceremony, the High Commissioner of Fiji expressed his country’s best wishes for Samoa’s preparations for the upcoming Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting (CHOGM). In response, the Head of State of Samoa acknowledged the support from the Pacific region, including Fiji, in hosting this significant event and expressed anticipation for welcoming the Commonwealth family to Apia in October.
The Head of State voiced his confidence in Mr. Toganivalu’s appointment, highlighting that his role will undoubtedly strengthen the existing relations and foster further cooperation on matters of mutual interest between the two nations.
Mr. Toganivalu brings a wealth of experience to his new role. He holds a Bachelor of Arts in Economics and Management from the University of the South Pacific and a Postgraduate Certificate in Security and Risk Management from the University of Leicester in the United Kingdom. His career includes service as a senior non-commissioned officer in the British Army, where he gained extensive experience working in diverse countries and cultures. He has served in high-stress environments such as the Middle East, Africa, Europe, and the Pacific. Prior to his current appointment, he worked as a regional security and risk management advisor for the Pacific region at the German Development Cooperation (GIZ).
The credential ceremony underscored the enduring and evolving relationship between Samoa and Fiji, setting the stage for continued collaboration and shared progress in the Pacific region.