Samoa Celebrates 56th Anniversary Of Independence

Samoa today celebrated its 56th anniversary of independence.

Speaking at the Independence celebration in Apia, Samoa Prime Minister Tuilaepa Sailele Malielegaoi says the island nation has come a long way as a sovereign nation.

“The government of Samoa today echoes the dream of our forefathers from 56 years ago – to shoulder the responsibility of self-governance and a destiny firmly placed in the hands of the leaders and our people.  We owe everything to God for keeping Samoa stable, peaceful and harmonious. We have had our struggles and difficulties and have learned that we do not have all the answers. That is why we need each other.

“Durable partnerships and mutual relations are vital to collectively respond to the daunting challenges of being small with scarce resources. Climate change, transnational organized crimes, cybercrimes, and alarming rates of non-communicable diseases require closer social and economic relations and shared responsibility between our countries.

“As stewards of the world’s biggest, most peaceful and abundant ocean continent, we draw strength and confidence from our culture and traditions, and our Christian values that bind Pacific peoples and communities together. Our vision for the Pacific as a region of peace, security, social inclusion and prosperity calls for stronger regional cooperation, so that our people can lead free, healthy and productive lives.

“We look to the future with unwavering faith that despite the difficulties we all face as independent countries. God is in control. He will continue to direct our paths if we continue to abide in Him,” Tuilaepa said.

He also acknowledged the presence of Fiji President Major General (retired) Jioji Konrote, and Nauru President Baron Waqa for attending the celebration.

“We thank you for joining our people for the first time in celebrating our independence. Earlier this year, I was invited together with the President of Fiji to the fiftieth independence commemoration of the Republic of Nauru, and we witnessed the strong sense of nationalism and belonging among the people of Nauru. The same spirit is very much alive in our country as we had witnessed this morning in the March Parade.

Let me acknowledge with sincere gratitude the Governor of American Samoa and the Titular Head of Tokelau. Thank you indeed for accepting our humble invitation,” Tuilaepa said.

Samoa Head of State Tuimalealiifano Vaaletoa Sualauvi II says today’s celebration is felt at every corner of the country.

“We are gratified that we are an Independent nation governed by our own people, and have our own laws, customs, traditions and Christian principles which complement each other, distinguishing us from other countries of the world. It is with pride that we remember our Forefathers and Leaders who championed the Independence movement which has made Samoa a truly sovereign nation.

“I thank the honourable Prime Minister and Cabinet, the Speaker and the members of the Parliament of Samoa and the Judiciary for their stewardship of our country. I thank also all the people of Samoa for your significant and various contributions to the development and security of our country. I would also like to thank our development partners for their continuing support which has empowered Samoa to pursue other facets of our development.

“I am aware that many of our people do pray for our Leaders and for peace, security and prosperity of our country. We need peace in Samoa, peace in the Pacific Region, and peace in the world,” he stressed.

(Source: PACNEWS 31 May 2018)

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