PM Tuilaepa applauds Ausralian Policy White Paper

The Government of Samoa is applauding the Australian Government’s Policy White Paper.

“Because therein is a manifestation of the ‘step up’ approach towards strengthening Australia engagement in the Pacific and the range of implementation measures that Samoa could be part of,” says Prime Minister Tuilaepa Lupesoliai Sailele Malielegaoi in his official address to commemorate Australian Day in Samoa last Friday evening.

The Prime Minister said the policy paper is anticipated to develop stronger partners for economic growth, security and stronger relationships between the two countries people. And he also acknowledged the programmes that are ensuring stronger people to people links such as the Australian volunteers, the Seasonal Worker Programme, Australia Awards scholarship and New Colombo Plan.

“Samoa as the chair of the Pacific Islands Forum acknowledges the dedicated chapter to Australia-Pacific relations in the white paper,” reaffirmed the Prime Minister.

“There is ambition in the engagement of Australia with Pacific island countries including ‘integrating Pacific countries including interacting Pacific countries into the Australian and New Zealand economics and security institution which are essential to long term stability and economic prospects.

“In my view, there is demonstrable readiness of Australia to consider the priority decisions that emanated from the 2017 forum leaders meeting,” he added.

He also acknowledged the recent assistance provided by Australia to support the Samoa Mission in the New Year in the delivery of its role as the current chair of the Pacific Islands Forum at the United Nations.

Australia’s is one of Samoas’ longest and loyal development partners with 2017 marking the 40th anniversary since Australia first established a High Commission in Samoa.

SOURCE: SAMOA GOVT/PACNEWS