Remarks by the Prime Minister, Hon Fiame Naomi Mataafa At the 248th Anniversary of the Independence of the USA

hosted by Ambassador Tom Udall, U.S. Embassy Residence, Vailima, Friday, 5 July 2024, 2.00 - 5.00p

Pastor Fata Fiaui

Lau Afioga, Tuimalealiifano Vaaletoa Sualauvi II and Masiofo

Member of the Council of Deputies and Faletua

Hon Ministers of Cabinet,

Chief Justice and Members of the Judiciary,

Hon Speaker and Members of Parliament,

Ambassador of the United States to Samoa, Your Excellency, Tom Udall

Members of the Diplomatic Corps,

Distinguished Guests

Ladies and Gentlemen,

Talofa and Good afternoon to all present here today at the celebration of the 248th Anniversary of the Declaration of Independence of the United States of America.

On behalf of the Government and the people of Samoa, I would like to convey to the Government and the people of the United States through you Ambassador Udall, our sincere congratulations on the commemoration of the 248th Independence anniversary of the United States of America.

It is a time of reflection, remembrance and celebration. We reflect on the fast changing times, the environmental polycrisis we are facing, the persisting unrest globally, the growing geopolitical ripple effect in the region and how they will all interact to influence the bilateral relations we have and what we have deemed as mutually beneficial partnerships.

Samoa appreciates the renewed effort by the United States to combat issues of climate change which unquestionably is the topmost priority for Samoa and the Pacific region. We acknowledge the focus of USAID assistance on climate change, food security, and disaster preparedness. We look forward with anticipation to further USAID investment in disaster risk reduction and preparedness for the Pacific through technical support from the US National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration to enhance risk assessment and appropriate response planning capability.

The US Coast Guard's frequent visits to Samoa to assist with maritime surveillance of Samoa waters has contributed to the strengthening of partnership with the Samoa Police Maritime wing and those of other partners collaborating with member countries of the region. While there is heightened cooperation in combating illicit maritime activities demonstrating our shared commitment to maritime security and prosperity of our Blue Pacific region, our request is to maintain a light security footprint in Samoa. We note the higher than normal overflights and landings of military aircrafts from our different partners.

The Soifua Manuia Medical Mission to Samoa has assisted in providing essential health care services across Samoa. including check-ups, screenings, specialised expertise, dental and women health services. I am delighted to note that they are currently in Samoa for their third visit from 2-11 July to provide advance healthcare accessibility and community wellness. This initiative not only benefits those in need of advance medical care and treatment but moreover to share knowledge and expertise with our healthcare professionals.

The Peace Corps programme has been the foundation of US assistance to Samoa with contributions to many sectors especially the Education sector. We are happy to continue this partnership between the Government of Samoa and the Peace Corps volunteers which has assisted us in our efforts to build the numbers of skilled teachers and promoting the development of education through enhancing literacy and numeracy at all levels of education.

In April this year we celebrated the International Jazz Day under the theme of "A Journey of Jazz" where the Navy Pacific Fleet Band shared a series of jazz performances in collaboration with our local artists. A night of performances that I for one truly enjoyed.

These are some of the highlights of the close cooperation between our two countries.

Before I conclude my remarks, allow me to congratulate Ms Noriko Horiuchi for the successful completion of her two (2) year tenure as Chargé d' Affaires of the US Mission in Apia. You have been resolute in demonstrating the willingness to assist when asked. You have been successful in mixing the fun of jazz appreciation with the serious side of security considerations. I wish you and your family well in your future endeavours. In that regard, we also look forward to welcoming your successor in the near future.

Ladies and Gentlemen, I respectfully invite you all to join me in proposing a toast: "Best wishes for continued prosperity of the United States and may our close relations continue to prosper. Happy Independence Day."

Soifua and God bless.

Photo by Government of Samoa (Leaosā Faaifo Faaifo)

July 17, 2024

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