The Government of Japan continues its commitment in its growing partnership with the Government of Samoa in achieving its development aspirations.
The 17-metre maintenance boat that arrived recently was officially handed over earlier today (23 October) through a handover ceremony by His Excellency, Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of Japan, H.E. Mr. SUZUKI Ryotaro to Hon. Prime Minister, Laaulialemalietoa Leuatea Polataivao Fosi Schmidt. Also, present at the ceremony were Cabinet Ministers, Samoa Shipping Corporation (SSC) representatives and distinguished guests.
For nearly 40 years, Japan has supported SSC through the provision of passenger and cargo vessels, including Lady Samoa II in 1988, Lady Naomi in 1998, Lady Samoa III in 2010, and Lady Samoa IV in 2022. These vessels have contributed significantly to Samoa’s maritime transport, particularly in connecting Upolu and Savai‘i and facilitating the movement of people, goods and agricultural products.
The handover of the 17-metre maintenance boat and mobile workshop truck represents a further step in Japan’s assistance to SSC, moving beyond the provision of passenger and cargo vessels to strengthening the Corporation’s capacity to maintain and repair its fleet.
The project implementation was approved by the Government of Japan under its Grant Aid Assistance for the Economic and Social Development Programme.
As part of the same Japanese Grant Aid programme that funded Lady Samoa IV, Japan is pleased to provide a maintenance boat and a mobile workshop, with a combined value of approximately USD 1.54 million (approximately SAT 4.23 million), which will further strengthen the safety and reliability of Samoa’s maritime transport.
The Government of Japan remains committed to working closely with the Government of Samoa and SSC to support safe, reliable and sustainable maritime transport, contributing to Samoa’s economic and social development.
This project further reflects the enduring friendship and close cooperation between Japan and Samoa.
