(Picture caption: The New Zealand delegation to Samoa performs a waiata for the Samoan Government officials.)
A New Zealand parliamentary and community delegation spearheaded by Prime Minister Rt Hon Jacinda Ardern journeyed to Apia to Apia to celebrate the 60th Anniversary of the signing of the Treaty of Friendship between Aotearoa and Samoa.
The Treaty was signed in 1962 two months after Samoa became the first Pacific island to achieve independence.
New Zealand’s delegation, which also included Minister for Pacific Peoples Hon Aupito William Sio and Secretary for Pacific Peoples Laulu Mac Leauanae, arrived in Samoa on August 1, the day Samoa re-opened its border after prolonged COVID-19 restrictions.
During the swift overnight visit to Samoa which included bilateral meetings, a traditional ‘ava ceremony and celebrations, Prime Minister Ardern announced the launch of a new climate change partnership was announced, while New Zealand’s support was confirmed for the rebuild of Apia’s Savalalo Market.
“I am pleased to reaffirm our commitment to Samoa — and the priorities of the Government of Samoa — as we mark this milestone in our countries’ shared history,” Prime Minister Ardern says.
Through the Samoa–Aotearoa New Zealand Climate Partnership, New Zealand is committing NZ$15 million in flexible finance to support the delivery of Samoa’s climate change priorities.
“This funding will help build Samoa’s resilience to the impacts of climate change and its transition to a low emissions economy,” Prime Minister Ardern says.
“We will work with the Government of Samoa to determine governance arrangements, and opportunities for future investments.”
At the request of Samoa, New Zealand will also provide NZ$12 million toward the rebuilding of the historic Savalalo Market, which was destroyed by fire in 2016.
New Zealand is co-financing the rebuild, which will take place on the same waterfront site as the old market, in partnership with the Samoa Government.
“As Samoa transitions from COVID-19 lockdowns and reopens to the world, the rebuilding of the market signifies our focus on economic recovery through support to small business, local enterprise, and women’s entrepreneurship,” Prime Minister Ardern adds.
“The market was renowned as a hub for local crafts and food, run primarily by women small business owners.
“It is at the heart of Apia’s community and economic life, as well as formerly being a major tourist attraction.
“We are proud to support the Government of Samoa re-establish it.”
The delegation’s visit to Samoa, has been described as an extension of Samoa's Prime Minister Fiame Naomi Mataafa's visit to New Zealand in June.
Discussions on the table also included a range of bilateral and regional priorities, including economic resilience, climate change and COVID-19 recovery.