Excellencies, Esteemed guests, ladies and gentlemen,
On behalf of the Government and the people of Samoa, Talofa lava and welcome to our Independence lunch. I take this opportunity to thank you all, in particular our special guests from abroad for joining us in the celebration of Samoa’s 64 years of Independence. We live in an increasingly interconnected world, where the strength of any nation is measured not only by its achievements, but also by its ability to cooperate in agile partnerships and harmony with others.
Any anniversary commemoration is an opportunity to appreciate the fellowship, goodwill and unity that have brought us together in both purpose and celebration. It also serves as a reminder that beyond our roles and responsibilities, we are bound by a shared commitment to the progress and wellbeing of our countries.
It is this spirit of unity of placing collective interest above individual gain that has sustained our democracy for 64 years and continues to guide our journey forward. It is what has enabled Samoa to remain resilient, stable and forward-looking in the face of global persisting challenges and uncertainties.
As we look ahead, let us continue to build on our strengths, address our challenges with honesty and determination, and work together in a spirit of cooperation and mutual respect. For in doing so, we will continue to strengthen the foundations of resilience, solidarity and prosperity for our people.
The theme for our celebration this year is “United for a New Beginning,”. While we hold in veneration the journey that has brought us here, we are also called to move forward with renewed purpose, strengthened unity, deepened collaboration and partnerships, and embrace the opportunities that lie ahead for Samoa.
I take this moment, to thank Samoa’s citizenry for your contributions to God and country and our development partners for their continued support and dedicated engagement with the government to address the relentless challenges we face as a nation, as a member of the regional custodians of the Blue Pacific, and as an international citizen of the global family. Together, we can attain a secure, peaceful and prosperous Samoa and Blue Pacific continent.
Excellencies, Honourable guests, ladies and gentlemen, please join me in a toast to Unity, Prosperity and success of our beloved Samoa.
Ia manuia.
SOIFUA
