Prime Minister La’aulialemalietoa Leuatea Polataivao Fosi Schmidt has called for unity, cooperation and shared responsibility as Samoa celebrated 64 years of Independence.
Speaking at the official Independence lunch hosted by the Government of Samoa at Taumeasina Island Resort on Monday, 1 June 2026, the Prime Minister welcomed Samoa’s local leaders, church representatives, members of the diplomatic corps, government officials, business representatives and invited guests from across the Pacific and beyond.
Among the overseas guests acknowledged were the Governor-General of Australia, Her Excellency the Honourable Sam Mostyn, the Prime Minister of the Kingdom of Tonga, Honourable Lord Fakafanua, New Zealand Minister of Foreign Affairs Vaovasamanaia Winston Peters, the Speaker of the Parliament of Fiji, Honourable Filimone Jitoko, the Ulu o Tokelau, Afioga Petelo Alapati Pita Tavite, and leaders from American Samoa.
The Prime Minister said Samoa’s 64th Independence anniversary was a moment of thanksgiving and reflection, but also a call to continue the work of nation building.
He said this year’s theme, “Samoa ua tasi mo se amataga fou,” or “United for a New Beginning,” points to the importance of unity within Samoa and in Samoa’s relationship with neighbouring countries and the wider world.
In his address, La’aulialemalietoa said Samoa’s strength is found in its people, families, faith, culture and shared identity. He said the bonds that connect Samoans through blood, genealogy and family remain part of the country’s foundation.
He also said Samoa’s future plans must continue through cooperation with its regional partners and the global community. However, he said the success of those plans depends on unity and people working together.
The Prime Minister told guests that Samoa, like other nations, continues to face difficult challenges. He referred to climate change, wars and conflict, health threats, economic pressure and local challenges. Despite these difficulties, he said Samoa continues to stand on its faith in God.
In the English part of his address, the Prime Minister said the world is increasingly interconnected and that the strength of a nation is measured not only by its achievements, but also by its ability to cooperate with others in partnership and harmony.
He said Samoa’s democracy has been sustained for 64 years by unity and by placing collective interest above individual gain.
“As we look ahead, let us continue to build on our strengths, address our challenges with honesty and determination, and work together in a spirit of cooperation and mutual respect,” he said.
The Prime Minister also thanked Samoa’s citizens for their contribution to God and country, and acknowledged development partners for their continued support in helping Samoa respond to national and regional challenges.
He said Samoa remains part of the Blue Pacific and the wider global family, and that partnership is needed to build a secure, peaceful and prosperous future.
The Prime Minister ended his address with a toast to the unity, prosperity and success of Samoa.
This story is based on the Prime Minister’s address at the Government of Samoa’s official lunch for the 64th Independence celebration, held at Taumeasina Island Resort on 1 June 2026.
