Samoa joined Australia in celebrating Australia Day at a special reception held in Apia. The event, attended by dignitaries, government officials, and members of the diplomatic community, underscored the strong and enduring partnership between the two nations.
Delivering the keynote address, the Hon Prime Minister, Fiame Naomi Mata’afa, extended heartfelt congratulations to the Government and People of Australia. Speaking directly to Australian High Commissioner to Samoa, Excellency Robinson, the Prime Minister highlighted the importance of Australia Day as a time to reflect on the nation’s history, its cultural diversity, and its evolving role in the global community.
The evening also marked a significant milestone, 55 years of diplomatic relations between Samoa and Australia, established in 1971. This long-standing relationship, built on mutual respect and shared values, has facilitated numerous collaborations across economic, social, and security sectors.
“Our Bilateral Partnership Arrangement, ‘O le Fala Folasia i lo ta Va’ (The Map that Guides Us), serves as a blueprint for our ongoing cooperation,” the Prime Minister stated.
“Through this partnership, we continue to focus on key areas such as climate and disaster resilience, security cooperation, economic growth, and human development.”
Among the many initiatives that have strengthened the Samoa-Australia relationship, the TAUTAI and TAUTUA flagship programs were highlighted for their contributions to economic and human development. The benefits of labour mobility schemes were also acknowledged, though the need for policy reviews to address emerging challenges was emphasized.
Security cooperation was another focal point of the speech. The Samoa Australia Police Partnership was credited for its role in ensuring the successful security operations during Samoa’s hosting of the Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting (CHOGM) last year. The growing importance of cybersecurity in regional stability was also noted, with appreciation extended to Australia for its investment in capacity-building programs.
“Our shared commitment to the prosperity of the Blue Pacific region remains steadfast,” the Prime Minister affirmed. “We advocate for a Pacific that is free from military competition, a region characterized by peace and unity.”
The Samoan government also expressed gratitude for Australia’s continued financial assistance, including budget support programs that align with Samoa’s sustainable development goals. The commitment to further strengthening bilateral ties and regional cooperation was reaffirmed.
The evening concluded on a celebratory note as attendees raised their glasses to toast the enduring Samoa-Australia relationship.
“To the enduring and meaningful Samoa-Australia relations. Happy Australia Day. Ia manuia!”
