The Government of the Independent State of Sāmoa and the Government of the People’s Republic of China has reaffirmed its joint commitment and partnership to strengthen relations and cooperation between both countries and to facilitate exchange of visits between citizens of both countries including promotion of people to people linkages and sub-national cooperation.

An Agreement on Mutual Visa Exemption was signed today (23rd January 2025) between the Chief Executive Officer of the Ministry of the Prime Minister and Cabinet, Mr Agafili Shem Leo and the Chinese Ambassador to Sāmoa His Excellency Mr Fei Mingxing during the celebration of the Chinese Spring Festival. On conclusion of the signing, the Prime Minister of Sāmoa, Honourable Fiame Naomi Mataafa delivered a few remarks followed by an Address by His Excellency Ambassador Fei . Both the Hon Prime Minister and Ambassador acknowledged that the visa exemption arrangement would benefit both countries substantially through ease of international travel. It was further recognized that this important development would also align with this year’s 50th Anniversary since the establishment of diplomatic relations between the two countries in 1975.

The Agreement on Mutual Visa Exemption was one of the discussion issues at the bilateral meeting between the Honorable Prime Minister of Sāmoa and the President of the People’s Republic of China His Excellency Xi Jinping during the Prime Minister’s official visit to China from 20-28 November last year.

Aside from the Mutual Visa Exemption, the culmination of the Bilateral Meetings between the Hon Prime Minister and the Chinese Leaders included the signing of the:
• Economic and Technical Cooperation Agreement
• MOU on Exchange and Cooperation in the field of Economic Development
• MOU on Establishing a Working Group on Promoting Unimpeded Trade
• MOU on the Global Development Initiative
• MOU on Education Collaboration and Exchanges
• Handover Certificate for the Fingerprint Testing Laboratory

The collaborative efforts and cooperation between the Governments of Samoa and China illustrate a shared commitment and mutual trust to strengthen mutually beneficial cooperation.

The Government of Sāmoa and the Government of the People’s Republic of China will continue to pursue greater collaboration that will deliver on joint interests and agreed commitments to address key national development priorities that are in line with the Pathway for the Development of Sāmoa, and for the benefit of our two Peoples.

CAPTION- An Agreement on Mutual Visa Exemption was signed today (23rd January 2025) between the Chief Executive Officer of the Ministry of the Prime Minister and Cabinet, Mr Agafili Shem Leo and the Chinese Ambassador to Sāmoa His Excellency Mr Fei Mingxing during the celebration of the Chinese Spring Festival.

Press Release: Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade
Government of Sāmoa

ATA: Government of Sāmoa.

The Honourable Barbara Edmonds, Member of Parliament for the Mana electorate, has been honored with the chiefly title Pesetatamalelagi by her ancestral village of Sāfotu in Savai’i.

The prestigious title was conferred during a formal ceremony on Friday, 17 January, recognizing her service, leadership, and contributions to both her community and public life.

In the Sāmoan culture, chiefly titles carry deep significance, symbolizing trust, respect, and a commitment to serve one’s people. For Afioga Pesetatamalelagi, this recognition underscores her dedication to her family, her roots in Sāfotu, and her work as a public servant.

As the Labour Party’s spokesperson for finance, Hon. Pesetatamalelagi Barbara Edmonds plays a pivotal role in New Zealand politics, advocating for sound fiscal management and policies that benefit the public. This chiefly title adds a profound cultural dimension to her work, reminding her of the responsibility to lead with humility and wisdom.

The ceremony was a proud moment not only for Hon. Pesetatamalelagi Barbara Edmonds but also for the people of Sāfotu. Surrounded by village elders, family members, and supporters, the occasion highlighted the enduring connection between the Samoan diaspora and their homeland. As the villagers celebrated, their joy and pride echoed a collective affirmation of the values of service, leadership, and identity.

This honor stands as an inspiration, symbolizing the strength of Sāmoan identity and the global impact of its leaders, and for Edmonds’ it is a symbol of the enduring ties between Sāfotu and its children, no matter where in the world they may reside and tautua (serve).

ATA: Barbara Edmonds.