Samoa has called for stronger regional cooperation and more resilient systems of governance as Pacific countries confront climate change, economic pressures and changing social conditions.
The message was delivered by Associate Minister for the Ministry of the Prime Minister and Cabinet, Vui Sione, during the Governance for Resilient Futures policy dialogue held at Taumeasina Island Resort in Apia from 16 to 17 July 2026.
The two-day dialogue brought together representatives from Samoa, the Cook Islands, Niue and Tokelau, alongside members of the diplomatic community, government officials and development partners.
Vui said Pacific nations were meeting at a time of increasing uncertainty, with countries across the region facing interconnected risks including climate change, economic shocks and demographic and social changes.
He noted that Samoa was ranked as the 19th most vulnerable country on the Vulnerability Index in 2024.
Rather than viewing the ranking as a reason for discouragement, the Government regarded it as a call for clearer action and greater urgency, he said.
Samoa’s response is being guided by the second Pathway for the Development of Samoa, known as PDS2, which sets out national and sector priorities expected to be pursued over the next five years.
Vui described PDS2 as Samoa’s own development roadmap and the national platform from which the country was contributing to the regional policy dialogue.
The theme of the gathering was drawn from the Samoan proverb, “Ua faapōpō ni aso ua, ae le tu’ua aso folau,” which reflects the principle that even when the journey becomes difficult, it must not be abandoned.
Vui said resilience was not a new or imported concept for Pacific communities.
It was grounded in the aiga, traditional governance, spiritual strength and the shared understanding that people, land and future generations were closely connected.
He said these values were shared across Pacific societies and provided a strong foundation for countries to work together as one regional family.
The dialogue was intended to encourage honest discussions about challenges that cross national borders.
Representatives from the Cook Islands, Niue and Tokelau were invited to share their experiences, constraints and innovations, while Samoa presented lessons from its development planning and governance initiatives.
These included PDS2, the National Workforce Plan and the National Anti-Corruption Policy and Strategy.
Vui said the purpose was not for delegations to speak past one another, but for Pacific partners to compare their experiences and identify solutions that could strengthen governance across the region.
The Associate Minister also emphasised the importance of strong policies and forward planning in protecting communities and national economies from unexpected events.
He said Samoa’s development priorities included strengthening the safety, wellbeing and freedom of all people, building the skills and capabilities of citizens, reducing poverty and ensuring that vulnerable communities had equal access to opportunities.
The policy dialogue was supported by the United Nations Development Programme through its partnership with Samoa’s Public Service Commission.
Vui acknowledged the partnership and said cooperation between governments, communities and development organisations remained essential to building effective policies, allocating resources and improving public services.
“The path ahead is not travelled alone, and today, together, we chart it with intention,” he said.
Ministry of the Prime Minister and Cabinet, Government of Samoa.
