King Charles III and Queen Camilla have arrived in Apia, Samoa, marking their first-ever visit to the Pacific nation. Upon their arrival, the royal couple was welcomed with a ceremonial guard of honour at the airport before being escorted to their accommodation in Siumu.
Lining the streets, local villagers warmly greeted the monarch with lanterns, showcasing the hospitality and culture of Samoa.
During their stay, King Charles will address the Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting (CHOGM), focusing on environmental resilience and the importance of ocean conservation. One of the highlights of the visit will be a formal ‘Ava Fa’atupu ceremony, which will officially welcome the King and Queen.
In addition to these events, Charles will attend the CHOGM Business Forum to discuss sustainable urbanisation and efforts to combat climate change.
The royal itinerary also includes a visit to a mangrove forest, a National Park, and Samoa’s Botanical Garden, where King Charles will plant a tree in a newly established area named “The King’s Garden.”
Meanwhile, Queen Camilla will engage in educational and social welfare activities, including a visit to a traditional pastor’s school (aoga faifeau) to observe how children are taught, and the Samoa Victim Support Group, which supports survivors of domestic violence and sexual abuse.