Over the past years Samoa has seen successful results driven outcomes stemming from high level development policy dialogues conducted on an annual basis with Samoa’s key development partners.
Samoa has also proved demonstrable ability to lead its own development , take ownership, manage and implement good governance practices, build and strengthen human capacity to sustainable levels, use robust national processes and systems and align investment and assistance with national development needs as identified in the Pathway for the Development of Samoa and likewise the Samoa 2040 Plan .
COUNTRY PROFILES
Australia is Samoa’s largest bilateral donor and has an enduring partnership strengthened by the Pacific Step Up approach. Its development aid programme which is rolled out through the partnerships for recovery strategy focuses on health security, stability and economic recovery. Australia’s development partnership has indicated that it will continue to support Samoa to strengthen the preparedness and responsiveness of Samoa’s health system and recovery from COVID 19 economic impacts, maintaining stability and prosperity of Samoa whilst aligning as much as possible its investments with Samoa's own national development plans including where it can most effectively support Samoa's development and strengthen its economic resilience.
Australia through its work on the Samoa Fiscal Resilience Program continues to provide general budget support and technical expertise (in conjunction with key partners WB, NZ & ADB) via the Joint Policy Action Matrix to incentivize and support implementation of Samoa’s jointly agreed targets on reforms.
Australia’s development aid programme which is rolled out through the partnerships for recovery strategy focuses on health security, stability and economic recovery.
Security
The two Governments continue to work in partnership toward covering defence and security, economic recovery and growth, human development and people-to-people links; to further strengthen security cooperation consistent with commitments under the BOE declaration; and to continue building leadership and operational capacity through the Pacific Maritime Security Program (PMSP), Defence Cooperation Program and the Samoa Australia Police Program (SAPP) and to explore opportunities for cooperation on border security.
People-to-People Links
Samoa and Australia have strong personal connections, developed through sport and educational linkages. Initiatives such as PacificAus Sports provide opportunities for increased exchanges, strengthened people-to-people links and institutional partnerships, likewise the Labour Mobility schemes. Australia’s commitment to developing people-to-people links with Samoa is also seen through the Colombo Plan. The program provides opportunities for Australian interns/ undergraduates to complete short term study and work based experience in Samoa and other PICs.
Australia also provides volunteers under the Australian Volunteers for International Development Program (AVID) in a range of sectors (both private and public) where there is an absence of locally skilled or qualified expertise. Volunteers under this programme are those who are at management/executive level with a wealth of experience and technical know-how.
Education
Australia’s largest investment is towards the education sector where more than half its development assistance programme is targeted. Investment is focused on providing support to the education sector through the Education Sector Support Programme 2020 -2024 (ESSP - primarily through budget support and the provision of Technical Assistance. This includes funding for inclusive education and other education related projects.
Australia also aims to assist Samoa build a skilled and educated workforce through the provision of scholarship opportunities to study at tertiary institutions in Australia and the region, including distance and flexible learning. The awards enable students to gain the skills and knowledge needed to contribute to Samoa’s development and address human resource gaps in the workforce.
Relating to Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET), the Australia Pacific Training Coalition, (APTC) was established in 2007 in Samoa by the Australian Government to address skill shortages and build a resilient Pacific. APTC provides Australian recognized qualifications to vocational students and has also undertaken a partnership agreement with Nuanua o le Alofa (NOLA) to better accommodate and support people with disabilities.
Health
Australia has provided substantial assistance to Samoa both with the measles epidemic and the COVID-19 pandemic including financial, medical equipment/supplies and personnel support for vital public health interventions. The COVID-19 package support is part of Australia’s new development policy – Partnerships for Recovery, which focuses on health security, stability and economic recovery particularly in the Indo-Pacific region.
Canada enjoys good and friendly bilateral relations with Samoa. The Government of Canada and the Government of Samoa have shared common interests and concerns through membership in several international organizations, such as the Commonwealth, the United Nations and the World Health Organization since formal ties were established in 1971.
With regard to development assistance, Canada supports small-scale, community based projects in Samoa through the Canada Fund for local initiatives (CFLI), administered by the High Commission of Canada in New-Zealand. The CFLI focuses on the implementation of local projects that addresses issues such as children and youth, sustainable and green economic growth, climate change, gender equality, environmental sustainability, emergency response and disaster relief and inclusive support for services for the disabled. Samoa also benefits from multilateral assistance provided under the Canada International Development (CIDA) which is Canada’s lead agency for development assistance.
.
CHINA – SAMOA BILATERAL RELATIONS
Samoa’s engagement with China since 1975, remains underpinned by the One China policy. The one China principle is the political basis of the relationship between China and other countries. Samoa has stood firm in its commitment to the One China Policy unlike a number of PICs that have changed ship albeit Samoa has consistently maintained a non-interference policy when it comes to the Taiwan issue.
Date of Establishment of Diplomatic Relations with Samoa: November 1975
Diplomatic Representation
China diplomatic representation in Samoa: H.E. Mr. Chao Xiaoling since April 2019 (Ambassador Xiaoling succeeded Wang Xuefeng whose term ended in April 2019)
List of Chinese Ambassadors to Samoa:
October 1978 - June 1979 H.E Mr. Zhang Zhanwu
February 1981 – August 1982 H.E Mr. Wang Hao
April 1983 – July 1986 H.E Mr. Gu Ji
September 1986 – August 1990 H.E Mr. Sun Dagang
September 1990 – February 1994 H.E Mr. Yue Junqing
February 1994- July 1997 H.E Mrs. Wang Nongsheng
August 1997 – February 2002 H.E Mr. Wang Xingyuan
March 2002 – June 2004 H.E Mr. Gu Sicong
June 2004 – April 2006 H.E Mr. Liu Guanren
April 2006 – July 2008 H.E Mr. Shi Longzhuang
August 2008- February 2011 H.E Mr. Chongren Ma
March 2011 – December 2012 H.E Mr. Zhao Weiping
January 2012 – January 2016 H.E Mme Yanduan LI
September 15, 2015 – February 2019 H.E Mr. Wang Xuefeng
Samoa diplomatic representation in China: H.E. Mr Tapusalaia Terry Toomata (since June 2009 when the first Samoa diplomatic mission was set up in Beijing)
Bilateral Official Development Assistance (ODA)
China continues to provide valuable support to assist with many national development projects in infrastructure, sports, agriculture, education and health. Samoa has also benefited significantly from capacity building programs (scholarships & trainings) as well as people-to-people exchanges including Chinese volunteers /medical teams and technical experts in various fields.
Bilateral assistance is to a large extent administered directly by China (tied aid) and is provided on a project basis in the form of i) grants, following the signing of Economic and Technical Cooperation agreements or ii) loans. The grant element for concessional loans from China is about 27% compared to the grant element of 35% on loans from the soft windows of the World Bank, the I.D.A., and A.D.B.
China International Development Cooperation Agency (CIDCA)
Until March 2018, when CIDCA was established, the main authorities responsible for carrying out foreign aid delivery had been the Ministry of Commerce of the People’s Republic of China (MOFCOM) and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the People’s Republic of China (MOFA), through more than 20 different subordinated departments and commissions.
China funded Projects/ Programs
Sports
- Rehabilitation and upgrade of the Sports facilities for the Pacific Games hosted by Samoa in 2019 – Apia Park Stadium & Aquatic Centre (Grant/ Status – Project completed)
- Renovations to the stadium, tennis courts at Apia Park
- Construction of a new multi-purpose gym at Tuanaimato (netball, basketball, badminton, Ping-Pong and volleyball)
- Rehabilitation and maintenance of the swimming pool at the Aquatic Centre, Tuanaimato and other facilities/equipment
- Donation of sports equipment, performance props, fireworks & vehicles (87)
- Coach trainings
- Additional works requested on 1 March 2019 (to improve the rubber field track and the fence surrounding the track)
- Sports technical Cooperation Program 2019 (Status – Completed)
- 274 Samoan athletes, 38 local performers and 31 chefs completed 6 month trainings in China under the above program.
- Chinese coaches also provided local trainings for athletes for 4 weeks in preparation for the Pacific Games 2019.
Infrastructure
- Police Academy Project (Grant / Status – Implementation delayed)
- The agreement for the Samoa Police Academy was signed by the MFAT CEO on 26 June 2018. The Samoa Police Commissioner and two other government officials travelled to China in September of the same year to discuss the design specifications for the Police Academy.
- China has awarded the construction contract of the Police Academy to the Engineering firm ‘Top International Engineering Corporation” based in Xian, Shanxi. Implementation of the project had to be postponed from May 2019 due to a number of factors:
- Changes to the project site & late relocation of the Tafaigata Prison
- Hosting of the Pacific Games 2019
- 2019 Measles epidemic & the current COVID-19 pandemic & border closures
- Prisons Fence (Status – Completed)
This project was implemented with the funds collected from the sale of the buses donated by China for the SIDS2014 conference.
- Construction of Three Primary Schools - Lepea, St Theresa & Apia Primary Status – Implementation delayed)
The Exchange of Notes pertaining to the three Primary schools took place during the 3rd China Pacific Economic Forum in Apia in October 2019. The project works have been delayed due to COVID-19 and travel restrictions/border closures.
- Vaiusu Port (Grant/ Status – Project delayed)
The feasibility study for this project is still ongoing. A pre-feasibility study was undertaken in 2017 by a Guangzhou company that estimated the cost for the proposed wharf at USD$87 million, including the widening of the Asau Harbour channel. The project works have been put on hold for now until travel restrictions and border closures ease because Chinese design & technical teams are not able to travel across.
- Phase II of the Faleolo International Airport Terminal (Concessional Loan USD$50m/ Project completed)
The grand opening ceremony for the new Faleolo International Airport was held on 10 May 2018. The project cost is around USD$60 million. Construction Company (Shanghai Construction Group).
- New Court House and Judges House in Savaii (Status – tbc)
Project proposal for the construction of the new Court House and Judges House at Salelologa in Savaii was submitted on 7 February 2019 for consideration by the Chinese Authorities. Total estimated cost of the project is SAT$2,917,000.00
- NUS Maritime School Equipment (Grant/ Status – Completed)
China (Huizhou Municipality) donated SAT$393,131 (RMB1, 000,000) worth of maritime and marine science research equipment to the NUS School of Maritime in November 2020. This assistance is part of Phase II of the China-funded project: NUS Maritime Training and Marine Ocean Campus which was completed in November 2015.
- Samoa Arts and Culture Centre (Project Status – Ongoing)
The Arts and Culture Centre is funded by the Huizhou Municipal People’s Government in China. The project is 95% complete. The delay in works is due to COVID.
- Samoa-China Friendship Park (Project Status – Ongoing)
The Friendship Park is funded by the Huizhou Municipal People’s Government in China. It is part of the Apia Waterfront Development Project also funded by the Government of New Zealand. Progress has been slow due to the current pandemic.
Health
Chinese Medical Teams
The agreement for the Chinese Medical Teams (CMT) was signed on 18 May 2018 by the Minister of Health. CMTs are dispatched on six monthly assignments in different specialized medical fields that include Neurosurgery, Cardiology, Orthopedics, Urology, Dermatology, Ophthalmology, Pathology, Acute care, Gastroenterology and Endocrinology. The composition of the medical teams is discussed/agreed between the Samoa & Chinese governments - depending on the need at the hospitals especially given the shortage of local /medical specialist personnel.
The assistance include medical equipment and medicine for use at the hospitals as well as medical practice/trainings for local health personnel at the teaching hospital. 4 CMTs dispatched since 2018:
CMT1 – arrived in July 2018
CMT 2 – January 2019
CMT 3 – July 2019
CMT 4 – October 2020 (8 medical specialists)
Medical Professional Training Program for Pacific Island Countries (PICs)
Samoa was invited to the 3rd Medical Professional Training Program for the PICs that was organized by the Health Commission of Guangdong province from 5 June – 31 August 2019. The 1st Medical Professional Training was held in 2017.
China’s assistance towards COVID-19
- Donation from Guangdong Provincial Government (anti-COVID-19 medical supplies)
- Protective face masks, surgical gloves, disposable protective clothing, COVID-19 diagnostic test kits & thermometers
- Donation to the Joint Response Fund USD$100,000 towards Samoa’s COVID-19 Recovery efforts
- Donation of SAT$1.53m worth of PPEs and medical equipment
- Donation received through the Chinese Embassy:
- medical devices for treating COVID-19 infections
- 2 intensive care ventilators
- 50 sets of breathing circuit masks
- 2 mobile UV disinfection vehicles
- 25 UV disinfection lamps
- USD$250,000 provided to Samoa through the China-Pacific Island Countries Anti-Epidemic Cooperation Fund
- 6 voluntary experts of the Chinese Medical Teams working at the TTM hospital and supporting Samoa’s covid-19 response
- Agreement for the extension of the Debt Service Suspension Initiative (G20 Initiative) signed with China / loans for projects
- China officially joined the COVAX facility in October 2019. It has recently announced its plan to provide 10 million doses of COVID-19 vaccines to developing countries under this facility.
Community Development
- Training Course on Creative Handicrafts & Sewing Skills (Hunan International Business Vocational College) Status - Completed
The first Training Course on Creative Handicrafts and Sewing Skills for Samoa was held successfully by the Hunan International Business Vocational College (in coordination with the Embassy of China in Apia, MWCSD and MFAT) in 2017. 80 women from 4 villages (Vaimoso, Faleasiu, Lotofaga & Vaiala) were trained and each received sewing machines for their participation in the program.
A further 80 women and men were trained in 2018 in 4 villages including those from the district of Gagaifomauga I and II in Savaii.
Agriculture
- Samoa-China Agricultural Technical Cooperation Project SCATAP (Grant/ Status – Project extended from 2020)
The first phase of the agricultural training and demonstration project started in 2009. The 4th phase completed in May 2020 and Phase 5 due to commence but anticipating delays due to COVID, so timing is approximately September or thereafter.
- JUNCAO Mushroom Technology/Cultivation Training
2 members of the China National Engineering Research Centre of Juncao Technology visited Samoa during the period 18 – 23 November 2019 to introduce/discuss the JUNCAO technology. The Research Centre is planning to donate goods/supplies for the mushroom cultivation training to be conducted by SCATAP project experts at the demonstration farms at Nuu.
Education
- NUS Confucius Institute – Chinese Language Programs (Status – Ongoing)
The Confucius Institute at the National University of Samoa was officially opened on 10 September 2018. The institute offers Chinese language programs and hosts a variety of Chinese cultural activities. Only one language teacher is in Samoa while the rest of the teaching staff are stranded in China due to the situation with the COVID pandemic and border closures.
People-to-People Links/ Education
Trainings
Samoa continues to benefit from capacity building training programs/seminars offered/hosted by the Government of China each year. MFAT & PSC facilitate the participation of officials (public service/private sector) to trainings in China focusing on key areas such as governance, ICT, tourism management, agriculture, economic diplomacy, culinary, finance, aviation, trade and fisheries.
Scholarships
Chinese Government Scholarship Awards
China has been funding scholarships for Samoan students to pursue undergraduate and postgraduate programs in China since 1982. The scholarship program is administered by the China Scholarship Council (CSC). More than 200 Samoan students have enrolled in Chinese universities since the inception of the program. There are currently over 90 Samoan students in China.
Audit Scholarships
The Nanjing Audit University provides scholarship opportunities for the staff of the Samoa Audit Office to undertake postgraduate degrees in auditing in China each year.
Chinese Teachers/Volunteers
China has been providing volunteers from the Confucius Institute to teach Chinese Language at the National University of Samoa (NUS) since 2005. Other volunteers teach at the Primary and Secondary Schools.
Trade Issues
- There are ongoing discussions on the most appropriate trade arrangement with China.
- E-commerce is in infancy stages of development in Samoa.
One Belt One Road Initiative
One Belt One Road Forum
The Belt and Road Initiative, an ambitious economic foreign policy was unveiled by President Xi Jinping in 2013.Transport Minister Papalii Lee Hang attended the launching of this initiative in early 2017. The MoU was signed between the Minister of MCIL Hon Lautafi Purcell and Director of the National Development and Reform Commission of China Mr He Lifeng on 19 September 2018. Samoa is one of the first PICs to join this initiative, regarded as an important platform for building and promoting trade, communications, transport, investment, tourism and cultural relations.
The Second Belt and Road Forum for International Cooperation was held in Beijing from 25 – 27 April 2019 and attended by the Minister of MCIL/Public Enterprises Hon Lautafi Purcell.
Bilateral Agreements & MoUs
Air Services Agreement
The China-Samoa Air Service Agreement (ASA) was signed in September 2016.
Sister Cities Agreement/ Assistance (Huizhou/ Guangdong)
Grant assistance from China has taken a slight turn with some Grant development assistance channeled through and managed by Chinese Provincial governments / municipalities. Sister cities agreement between Apia and Shenzhen was signed in Apia in August 2015 and Huizhou (both cities in Guangdong Province) in November 2015 with the purpose of developing closer relations with these southern cities with historical people-to-people links with Samoa. Under the One Belt One Road initiative, Guangdong Province has been assigned by the Central Government to oversee relations with the Pacific Countries.
Samoa has signed a number of Agreements and MOUs with Huizhou Guandong Municipality:
- MOU on Scholarships and Donation of Teaching Equipment signed by the Hon. Prime Minister Tuilaepa S Malielegaoi and Mr Mai Jiaomeng, Mayor of Huizhou on November 11, 2015.
Since 2016, the Huizhou Municipal People’s Government has donated 23 sets of electronic teaching platforms and 3 computer rooms to colleges in Samoa.
- MOU on Medical Service Cooperation & Donation of Medical Equipment between Huizhou Central People’s Hospital and the TTM Hospital signed by the former Minister of Health Hon. Leao Tuitama and Mr Mai Jiaomeng, Mayor of Huizhou on November 11, 2015.
- Framework Agreements on the Construction of the Samoa-China Friendship Park at Eleelefou, Samoa-China Arts and Culture Centre at Malifa signed by the Hon Prime Minister Tuilaepa S Malielegaoi and former Ambassador Wang Xuefeng on 20 July 2018.
- MOU between Guangdong Provincial Government and Samoa Government on Economic and Technical Cooperation signed by the MFAT CEO, Peseta Noumea Simi during the APEC meeting in PNG in 2018.
- MOU between Huizhou Hualuogeng Secondary School (Guangdong Province) and Samoa College (Sister Schools). Samoa College students and teachers visited China in 2018. The visit was featured in the documentary titled ‘China and the Pacific Islands: Shared Destiny’.
Other MOU/ Agreements:
- MOU on Cooperation in Human Resources Development on areas such as agriculture, tourism business, trade, public administration, information and communications technology, infrastructure, energy and community development among others (Signed November 2018)
- MOU on the establishing the Joint Economic and Trade Commission (Signed November 2018)
- MOU between the Ministry of Agriculture & Rural Affairs of China and the Samoa Ministry of Agriculture and Fisheries
High Level Visits
China Recent HL Visits:
- October 2019 – Vice Premier Hu Chunhua (3rd China-Pacific Economic Development and Cooperation Forum, Apia)
- April 2019 – H.E. Mr Luo Shugang, Minister of Tourism (China Pacific Tourism Year 2019)
- March 2011 – Chairman of China’s CPPCC Political Consultative Conference Jia Qinglin (Bilateral Visit)
Samoa Recent HL Visits:
- September 2018 – Hon Prime Minister Tuilaepa S Malielegaoi & Minister of Commerce Hon Lautafi Purcell (World Economic Forum/ Signing of the EoN for the Pacific Games 2019 assistance & the MoU for the Belt and Road Initiative)
- 2013 – Hon Prime Minister Tuilaepa S Malielegaoi & government ministers (China Pacific Economic Cooperation Forum, Guangzhou)
- 2010 – Hon Prime Minister Tuilaepa S Malielegaoi (Shanghai Expo)
- Annual visits by Pacific Members of Parliaments sponsored by China’s CPC
CHINA AND THE PACIFIC
China-Pacific Economic Cooperation Forum
The1st China-Pacific Economic Forum was held in Nadi Fiji in 2006 followed by the 2nd Forum hosted by China in Guangzhou in November 2013. Samoa hosted the 3rd Forum in October 2019 which was attended by China’s Vice Premier H.E. Mr Hu Chunhua. The Forum which is held every 4 - 5 years, is a cooperation between China and PICs (with diplomatic relations with China). New Zealand and Australia attend the Forum as observers.
The main outcomes of the 3rd Forum include:
- Signing of the China-Pacific Economic Development and Cooperation Program of Action with 8 PICs
- Signing of MoUs (i) Infrastructure Cooperation ii) Strengthening investment and production capacity & iii) E-commerce
China Pacific Agriculture Ministers Meeting
The 1st China Pacific Agriculture Ministers Meeting was held in Nadi, Fiji from 28 – 29 March 2019. The meeting concluded with the adoption of the Nadi Declaration which included the agreement to jointly formulate a 2020-2022 Action Plan to identify the priorities for agricultural cooperation. The Nadi declaration also calls on the Ministry of Agriculture and Rural affairs of China to offer annual agricultural technology training courses for the PICs to bring their industries in line with Chinese standards. The first training course was launched in April 2019.
The 2nd Agriculture Ministers Meeting of China and Pacific Island States will be held in China in 2022.
At present, the main agriculture exports to China from the Pacific are fish and nonu which are exported by Chinese companies based in the islands (Samoa – Huanan Fish Company and Skyline Nonu). Transportation costs to China and the length of shipping time remains a huge challenge for the Pacific.
Tourism
China has been a member of SPTO for many years however, there has not been much progress in terms of tourism numbers in the Pacific Island Countries as a result, other than attendance at various Tourism Exhibitions in China for PICs.
Direct flights is the key to tourism links with China. Over 90% of China’s outbound to the PICs go to Fiji and Palau. Tourism arrivals from China to Samoa however is very low (less than 2000 per annum, mostly business/government project related and those transiting in Pago Pago). The lack of direct flights between the two countries continues to be the main obstacle in developing and increasing tourism flow.
The launch of the Pacific China Tourism Year 2019 is an important step in the cooperation between China and the Pacific, especially in the development of the tourism sector both for Samoa and the region.
China-Pacific Island Countries Second Vice Ministers Special Meeting on COVID-19
The 2nd Vice Ministers’ Special Meeting on COVID-19 was held virtually on 30 November 2020. The meeting was co-chaired by the Chinese Vice Foreign Minister Zheng Zeguang and the Foreign Minister of the Solomon Islands Jeremiah Manele. Representatives from China and 10 PICs (with established diplomatic ties with China) participated in the meeting.
The two sides reviewed the significant achievements of their cooperation on combating COVID-19, especially since the first vice ministers’ special meeting on COVID-19 on May 13, 2020.
China reaffirmed the commitment of making the development and deployment of COVID-19 vaccine, when available, a global public good, as part of its contribution to vaccine accessibility and affordability in developing countries, including Pacific Island Countries.
GERMANY – SAMOA BILATERAL RELATIONS
Germany and Samoa have a long history together dating back many years. From 1857, German traders and settlers established their networks in Samoa. Between the years 1857 and 1899, Samoa was under a three power rule - Germany, USA and the UK.
At the tripartite convention of 1899 in Washington, DC, the three powers ratified and signed the agreement dividing the Samoan islands. The islands of Western Samoa went to Germany and the islands of Eastern Samoa (now American Samoa) went to the US. The British however ceded their rights to Western Samoa in exchange for Tonga and some German territories in the Solomon Islands and in West Africa.
German administration began in Samoa from 1900 under Wilhem Solf, Samoa’s first German Governor. Solf returned to Berlin in 1911 and was succeeded by Dr Erich Schultz. Samoa remained under German rule until the outbreak of the First World War in 1914 when Samoa became a mandated territory of NZ which continued under the League of Nations after the WWI ended.
After a lengthy hiatus during and after the WWI and WWII periods, Samoa reconnected with Germany with the establishment of formal diplomatic relations in 1972.
Date of Establishment of Diplomatic Relations with Samoa: 18 May 1972
Bilateral Representation:
Germany diplomatic representation to Samoa: Ambassador H.E. Mr Stefan Krawielicki in Wellington
Honorary Consul of Germany in Samoa: Ms Christa Maria Szegedi (since June 2019)
Samoa diplomatic representation to Germany: Samoa Embassy in Brussels, Belgium
Development Cooperation
Germany’s assistance to Samoa is mostly channelled through the EU / Development Fund (EDF) as well as through regional and multilateral organizations/programmes such as the World Bank, Asian Development Bank and other aid agencies including Germany’s Development Agency (Deutsche Gesellschaft für Internationale Zusammenarbeit / GIZ). Established in January 2011, GIZ mainly implements technical cooperation projects of the German Federal Ministry for Economic Cooperation and Development , its main commissioning party, although it also works with the private sector and other national government organizations.
Germany’s assistance include the following:
- 2008 Project for the Digitalization of National Archives and records housed at MESC. This was funded by Germany with additional assistance from New Zealand.
- 2015 Project titled, ‘Energy Bill and the development and implementation of sustainable bioenergy in Samoa’, jointly funded by GIZ, German Cooperation & the EU.
- Regional Project 2009/2015, ‘Coping with Climate Change in the Pacific Islands Region’ (CCCPIR) to strengthen the capacities of Pacific Island Countries and regional organisations to cope with the anticipated effects of climate change. The project (EUR19.2 million) was funded by Germany through the Federal Ministry of Economic Cooperation and Development and implemented jointly by SPC, GIZ in close partnership with SPREP & USP.
- Tafiotala Primary School Project (Renovation of the toilet block and installation of the school’s new water tank). The contract for the project worth 8,824.15EUR (SAT25, 161.81 equivalent) was signed on 10 May 2017. This project was facilitated by the Embassy of Germany in Wellington.
- Health assistance (Funding for procurement of Medical Equipment for the Tupua Tamasese Meaole Hospital). The agreement for this project 12,560.13 EUR (equivalent to SAT37, 986.46)
was signed on 15 December 2017.
Sports
Training programs/courses offered by Germany:
- ‘Track and Field Coaching Diploma’, by the Academy for Foreign Coaches in Mainz, Germany from June – July 2014
- International Coaching Courses 2014 – 2015, Sports Faculty, University of Leipzig
- International Coaching program/ Postgraduate (Sports for the Disabled, Basketball, Swimming & Volleyball), 2020 – 2022, University of Leipzig – Partially funded by Germany
Other Trainings funded/organized by Germany:
- ‘2nd Executive Seminar for Young Career Diplomats from the Asia Pacific Region’, Berlin, August – September 2009
- ‘3rd Executive Seminar for Young Career Diplomats from the Caribbean and Pacific’, Berlin, July 2010
- ‘Adaptation to Climate Change and creation of a Green Economy’, Berlin, November 2011
- ‘78th International Green Week’, , January 2012 (Ministerial Invitation)
- ‘UNFCC conference COP23’, Bonn, November 2017
- ‘11th Executive Seminar for Diplomats and Officials from Island States in the Pacific and Indian Ocean Region’ 2018
- ‘8th Women’s Football Cultural Festival’, Berlin, July – August 2019
- ‘Berlin Energy Transition Dialogue, April 2018 (Ministerial Invitation)
- ‘Global Capacity Building Workshop on monitoring and utilization of genetic resources under the Nagoya Protocol’, Bonn, September - October 2019
- ‘11th Global Forum on food and agriculture’, Berlin, 2019 (Ministerial Invitation)
- ‘12th Global forum on food and agriculture’, Berlin, January 2020 (Ministerial Invitation)
- Samoa Police Band Tour to Germany, May 2020 (Request from Michel Tuffery a Samoan artist for the accompaniment of the police and of his artworks exhibition ‘Siamani Samoa’ at the Humboldt Forum in Berlin and opening of the Federal Theatre Festival, Dusseldorf).
High Level Visits since 2009:
Visits to Samoa:
- March 2012 - H.E. Mr Thomas Meister Former Ambassador of Germany to Samoa (Farewell visit)
- June 2012 - Professor Egon Juettner, Member of Parliament (Samoa’s 50th Independence Celebration)
- H.E. Mr Gerhard Thiemann Former Ambassador , October 2016 (Credentials Presentation)
Visits to Germany:
- 2013 - Samoa Hon Prime Minister, Berlin (Meeting with Former Chancellor Schroder)
- September 2007 - Hon Misa Telefoni Retzlaff, Samoa’s former DPM, Berlin (South Pacific Symposium)
- 2009 Samoa Prime Minister, Berlin (Copenhagen Summit on Climate Change)
- January/February 2014 - His Highness Afioga Tui Atua Tupua Tamasese Efi & Masiofo Filifilia Tamasese, (Meeting with the former President of Germany Joachim Gauck & also for the opening of the Museum exhibit).
Emergency/Disaster Relief & Response
- Samoa Tsunami 2009
Germany provided funding assistance through OXFAM NZ to support Samoa’s relief efforts following the tsunami in September 2009.
GERMANY – REGIONAL/ MULTILATERAL ENGAGEMENT
- Germany is a founding member of the European Community in 1958, which became the EU in 1993. It is also the largest financial contributor to the EU and subsidiary bodies such as the European Development Fund (EDF).
- Germany is part of the Schengen area and has been a member of the Eurozone since 1999. (The Eurozone is a monetary union of 19 of the 27 EU member states which have adopted the euro (€) as their common currency and sole legal tender).
- Germany is one of the key dialogue partners of PIF, 17th member announced at the 47th PIF Meeting in FSM. Common areas of strategic interest include climate change adaptation and mitigation as well as sustainable management of terrestrial and marine resources.
- Germany joined the UN in 1973 and has been one of the biggest financial contributors to the UN’s regular budget. It has served on the UN Human Rights Council, ECOSOC and the UN Security Council on a number of occasions. It is also one of largest contributor to the UN Peacekeeping missions.
- On 23 September 2019, the World Bank and Germany launched PROGREEN a new global partnership to boost efforts to stop deforestation; restore degraded lands; improve livelihoods in poor, rural communities; and reduce greenhouse gas emissions.
INDIA – SAMOA BILATERAL RELATIONS
Date of Establishment of Diplomatic Relations with Samoa: June 1970
Bilateral Representation:
India diplomatic representation to Samoa: High Commissioner of India to Samoa – H.E. Mr. Muktesh Kumar Pardeshi, resident in Wellington.
Samoa diplomatic representation to India: H.E. Ms Faalavaau Perina J Sila (Ambassador, Samoa Embassy in Tokyo)
Bilateral Official Development Assistance (ODA)
India Grant-in-Aid Programme
The Indian Grant Fund was first announced at the 2006 Pacific Is Forum (PIF). The grant is provided each year to support development projects (worth up to USD$200,000 per country). Projects covered under this assistance include: solar technology, water purification system, equipment, infrastructure, vehicles & medical equipment.
India’s assistance include:
- Provision of 3 Dialysis Machines for Samoa at a cost of NZ$ 122669.71 in September 2006 and additional 3 machines delivered in March 2008 (NZ$ 66316.74). India also provided 6 portable water treatment machines /reverse osmosis systems (NZ$ 65029.60) for the Dialysis Unit.
- 3 dialysis machines, 1 blood volume monitor and a temperature monitor (NZ$ 80,120) were supplied in May 2011.
- Indo-Samoa Medical Treatment scheme (similar to the NZ overseas medical treatment scheme). 2017 marked the first time Samoa began sending its patients for treatment in India.
Pending Proposals under the Grant:
- Samoa continues to pursue with the Government of India training opportunities and scholarships targeting HRD gaps in the Health sector. A proposal was submitted to the Government of India for funding towards doctors’ specialist trainings in India (or short term assignments for Indian doctors locally), but was not successful as the request falls outside the scope of the Grant assistance. The proposal was resubmitted for consideration by the Indian authorities.
- Tow Trucks x 2 for the Samoa Ministry of Police
The Ministry of Police is currently liaising with the Samoa Embassy in Tokyo and relevant Japanese authorities on the specifications of the requested vehicles.
- Vehicles for the Samoa Prisons and Corrections Services
Same update as no. 2 above
Emergency/ Disaster Relief & Assistance
COVID-19 Assistance & Response:
- Emergency medical supplies (drugs and protective equipment/gear) procured by the India’s Ministry of External Affairs for partner countries including Samoa.
- ITEC webinar programmes related to COVID-19 management (ongoing since June 2020)
Trainings
India’s Technical and Economic Cooperation (ITEC)
Samoa participates in training programs under ITEC in a range of fields such as IT, financial management, health, rural development and small scale enterprises. ITEC provides up to an average of 16 – 20 trainings annually.
Other Training Programmes and meetings funded/organized by India:
- Advance Orientation Programme for focal points of IRENA for International Solar Alliance (ISA), 17 to 25 January 2017
- Asia Pacific Ministerial Conference on Housing and Urban Development (APMUCHUD) in Delhi, 14-16 December 2016
- Short-term Course for Diplomats of Pacific Is Countries (PICs) organized by Foreign Service Institute (FSI) of the Ministry of External Affairs of India, Nadi , May 2015
- Professional Courses for Foreign Diplomats at the Foreign Service Institute (FSI)
- Short Term Course for Diplomats of PICs organized by FSI in Nadi, January 2011.
- FSI’s Special training programme for Commonwealth diplomats in New Delhi, March 2011.
- TERI workshop on sustainable development conducted for the Pacific Island Countries (PIC) in Fiji, 2007.
- Diplomatic Course in New Delhi , 2017
3rd SIDS conference 2014
India contributed US$250000/- to the UN Trust Fund to support Samoa’s hosting of the Conference in Apia from 1 – 4 September 2014. A high-level Indian delegation also participated in the SIDS Conference and reiterated India’s commitment towards development of Pacific countries.
India-Samoa Centre of Excellence in Information Technology at NUS
An MoU for the Establishment of the Centre of Excellence in IT (CEIT) was signed on 24 May 2017 by Hon Fiame Naomi Mataafa, Deputy Prime Minister and the Minister of State for External Affairs of India, Gen (Dr) V. K. Singh (Retd), in the margins of the ‘India-Pacific Is Sustainable Development Conference’ held in Suva. The purpose of the Centre is to promote the development of Information Technology by delivering quality IT courses. The assistance include course materials and advanced trainings for Samoan trainers in India.
Trade Relations
Trade with India is currently not significant. Although there are no immediate business prospects in Samoa, the possibility of strengthening India’s business and commercial presence in Samoa in infrastructure, public health and tourism sectors could be considered.
Forum for India-Pacific Is Cooperation (FIPIC)
The Forum for India-Pacific Islands cooperation (FIPIC) is a multinational grouping developed in 2014 for cooperation between India and 14 PICs (Cook Is, Fiji, Kiribati, Marshall Is, Micronesia, Nauru, Niue, Samoa, Solomon Is, Palau, Papua New Guinea, Tonga, Tuvalu & Vanuatu). The Heads of Governments of the said countries met in Suva, Fiji in November 2014 for the first time where the annual summit was conceptualized. The 2nd conference was held in Jaipur, India in 2015.
FIPIC focus on common issues of interest and concern such as the blue economy, climate change, disaster preparedness, health, security and renewable energy.
India’s assistance to Pacific SIDS under the FIPIC framework (announced by Prime Minister Modi at a meeting held during the UNGA74 in New York in September 2019):
- US$1 million allocated to each PSIDS towards the implementation of high impact development projects in area of choice;
- Concessional Line of Credit of US$150 million for SIDS for climate-related projects;
- Indian Technical experts to provide capacity building trainings in areas identified by SIDS;
- People-to-people exchange programs/ seminars for participation by PSIDS;
- India for Humanity project (setting up Limb Fitment camps in Pacific countries).
Immigration
Visas
Samoa has proposed a visa waiver agreement with India to facilitate travels by officials for trainings/meetings and other related purposes. A draft agreement proposed by the Indian government is being considered by Samoa government. The proposed agreement provides for exemption of visa requirements for holders of diplomatic/official passports for a maximum period of 90 days in any period of 180 days.
Bilateral Agreements & MoUs
- Service Agreement between the Samoa Ministry of Health and the Fortis Healthcare in India for the Indo-Samoa Medical Treatment Scheme (signed on 4 March 2017)
- Agreement on the Exchange of Information with respect to Taxes between Samoa and India (signed on 12 March 2020 between the Samoa Prime Minister Hon Tuilaepa S Malielegaoi & Indian High Commissioner H.E. Mr Muktesh Kumar Pardeshi)
- Framework agreement on the Establishment of the International Solar Alliance (signed on 12 December 2019)
- International Solar Alliance (ISA)
This initiative was first proposed by former Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi in November 2015. The primary objective of the alliance is to work for efficient consumption of solar energy to reduce dependence on fossil fuels The Alliance currently has 121 members including Samoa.
Members have been invited to submit proposals for the funding available (USD$50,000) from ISA for innovative pilot solar projects.
High Level Visits
India Recent HL Visits:
- September 2014 – HL Government delegation (SIDS Conference 2014, Apia)
- May 2012 – Indian State Assembly delegation (23rd Commonwealth Parliamentary Seminar, Apia)
Samoa Recent HL Visits:
- August 2015 – Hon Prime Minister Tuilaepa S Malielegaoi and delegation (2nd Forum for India-Pacific Is Cooperation, Jaipur)
- February 2013 – Hon Tuilaepa S Malielegaoi (Asia Leadership Programme on Sustainable Development and Climate Change, New Delhi)
- May 2013 – Hon Faumuina Liuga, Former Minister of Finance & delegation (46th Annual Meeting of the ADB Board of Governors, New Delhi)
- October 2013 – Hon Gatoloaifaana A Gidlow, Associate Minister of Women, Community & Social Development (2nd High Level Meeting on South-South Cooperation for Child Rights in Asia and the Pacific, New Delhi)
INDIA AND THE PACIFIC
In the past years, India’s aid to the Pacific was mostly targeted towards Fiji due to the deep cultural and historic ties with the country.
Soon after it was admitted as a PIF Post Forum Dialogue Partner in 2006, India provided an annual grant aid of USD$100,000 to each PIC for development projects. This amount increased to USD$125,000 in 2012 (PIF Meeting in Cook Islands) and subsequently to USD$200,000 in 2014 (during the Indian Prime Minister Modi’s visit to Fiji for the 1st India-Pacific Islands Cooperation Forum – FIPIC). India has committed more than USD$100 million in aid to the Pacific between the years 2014 to 2018.
India’s flagship India’s Technical and Economic Cooperation (ITEC) programs have been well received by PICs for HR development in areas that are in line with their priority needs.
Trade
Trade with the Pacific Island countries have been strengthened with the establishment of a FIPIC Trade Office in New Delhi which was later named as the FIPIC Business Accelerator in September 7, 2015. The Confederation of Indian Industries (CII) has also set up an exclusive department for promoting trade with Pacific Island Countries with its headquarters in New Delhi.
South-South Cooperation with Small Islands Developing States (SIDS)
India has a longstanding tradition of south-south cooperation with fellow developing countries, especially LDCs and Small Island Developing States (SIDS). This cooperation spans a vast range of development partnership activities (including renewable energy, infrastructure, disaster risk reduction, agriculture & fisheries).
In the context of cooperation with Pacific Islands, India has committed to the establishment of an Institute for Sustainable Coastal and Ocean Research; a Network of marine Biology Research Stations and IT laboratories. India also provides assistance for coastal surveillance and hydrographic surveys; scholarships for higher education and training; and trainings in various fields.
On the World Oceans Day on 8 June 2017 India announced a contribution of US$ 1 million towards a Climate Early Warning System project for six PICs (Cook Islands, Kiribati, Marshall Islands, Micronesia, Nauru, Solomon Islands and Tonga) under the India-UN Development Partnership Fund.
INDONESIA – SAMOA BILATERAL RELATIONS
Date of Establishment of Diplomatic Relations with Samoa: 17 March 1980 Bilateral Representation: Indonesia diplomatic representation to Samoa: The Embassy of the Republic of Indonesia in Wellington is accredited to Samoa. The current Indonesian Ambassador to Samoa is H.E Mr. Tantowi Yahya. He is also Indonesia’s Roving Ambassador to the Pacific.
Samoa diplomatic representation to Indonesia: The High Commission of Samoa in Wellington is accredited to Indonesia (H.E. Mr Leasi Papalii Tommy Scanlan).
Bilateral Meetings Indonesia-Samoa High Level Bilateral Meeting The Samoa Prime Minister Hon Tuilaepa S Malielegaoi held a bilateral meeting with the Indonesian Foreign Minister Retno LP Marsudi on the sidelines of the 72nd UN General Assembly in New York in September 2017. Discussion focused on areas of cooperation including capacity building programs in agriculture, fisheries, tourism, disaster risk management and ICT.
Indonesia Assistance to Samoa
Health Sector - Donation Indonesia donated two (2) ambulance vehicles (Toyota Hiace Commuter modified / equipped) to Samoa in 2018. The official handover ceremony took place on 26 March 2018.
Indonesia Technical Cooperation Programme (ITCP) Indonesia’s Technical Cooperation Program (ITCP) was established in 1981 to provide technical assistance (in the form of training programs; study visits; apprenticeship programs and the dispatch of technical experts) to developing countries in the Asia, Pacific and Latin American regions. To further develop these technical cooperation programs, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Indonesia formed the Directorate of Technical Cooperation in 2006. The technical programs are provided in various areas including agriculture, education, finance, ICT, climate change, renewable energy, forestry, disaster management, fisheries, micro-credit, women's empowerment, SMEs, tourism, arts and culture, disaster risk management, health, democracy and good governance. Recent training programs offered through the ITCP to Samoa: Journalist Visit Program for the African and Pacific Region, July 2019 Disaster Reduction Management Workshop, 2018 Training in Coconut Product Development, November 2017 Maritime Safety and Security Program, August 2017 Workshop on needs assessment and best practices on integrated chemical management, March 2017 Indonesia Scholarships Scholarships offered by the Indonesian Government to countries including Samoa: 1. Indonesian Art and Culture Scholarships (IACS) The scholarship is available to developing countries on a competitive basis.
2. Darmasiswa Scholarship Non degree scholarship usually 1 – 2 years to study the Indonesian language as well as music, arts & crafts.
3. Developing Countries Partnership Scholarship (DCPS) The scholarship was launched in 2006 and is for undergraduate/graduate programs for 3 years (including 1 year of language study). The awards are offered on a competitive basis.
Trade Relations Samoa entered into a trading partnership with Indonesia in 2017. The partnership was a result of discussions held during the visit of the Senior Advisor to Indonesia’s Foreign Minister Djauhari Oratmangun to Samoa, in August 2017.
Immigration In May 2016, the Government of Indonesia granted visa exemption for Samoan citizens to facilitate travels for tourism, family reunion, social, art and cultural, official visit, seminar, business and international exhibition. The visa is for a minimum stay of 30 days.
High Level Visits
Indonesia HL Visits to Samoa: March 2018 – Special Envoy of the Indonesian President H.E Mr Muhammad Lufti and Indonesian Ambassador to Samoa (Official Handover of ambulances to MoH) December 2017 –Indonesian Ambassador (Hosting of the ‘Indonesia Culinary Festival’ at Sheraton Samoa Aggie Greys Resort & Official meetings). August 2017 - Senior Advisor on Strategic Issues to Indonesia’s MFA Minister H.E. Djauhari Oratmangun accompanied by the Indonesian Ambassador H.E. Tantowi Yahya (Bilateral meetings / 48th PIF Forum in September 2017). Samoa HL Visits to Indonesia: Minister of Agriculture Leuatea Schmidt and Minister of Communications and ICT, Hon Rico Tupai (Official meetings) Hon Rico Tupai, MCIT Minister (Indonesia’s 72nd Anniversary)
RELATIONS WITH THE PACIFIC
Indonesia became a PIF Dialogue Partner in 2001. Indonesia is an associate member of the Melanesian Spearhead Group (MSG) which is an intergovernmental organization composed of the Melanesian states of Fiji, PNG, Solomon Islands and Vanuatu. Indonesia joined the group in June 2015. Indonesia’s Pacific Elevation Strategy was launched in July 2019 during Indonesia’s inaugural Expo held in Auckland, for greater connectivity with the PICs. Indonesia provides assistance to countries in the Pacific through its Technical Cooperation Program (ITCP). Short term trainings offered under this program cover areas that are important to the PICs including climate change, disaster risk assessment/management, fisheries as well as eco-tourism. Indonesia also provides humanitarian assistance to PICs in response to natural disasters e.g. Cyclone Pam in Vanuatu & Cyclone Winston in Fiji. Indonesia has also signed agreements with the governments of the Solomon Is and Fiji for COVID-19 assistance.
The West Papua Conflict The Papua conflict is an ongoing conflict in Western New Guinea between Indonesia and the Free Papua Movement. The West Papua issue continues to be an obstacle to the development of a cohesive Pacific diplomatic approach by Indonesia. In 2019, the PIF Leaders called on the Indonesian Government to allow the United Nations Office of the Human Rights Commissioner (UNOHRC) to visit the West Papua province. The Forum Leaders position on West Papua: Concerned about the human rights violations but acknowledge Indonesia’s sovereignty over West Papua Continue to call on all parties to protect the human rights of residents/people; work to address the root causes of the conflict by peaceful means & maintain open and constructive dialogue on this issue. Indonesia continues to rely on the Pacific nations’ support for its interest in the region. Vanuatu however has been vocal about expressing its support for West Papuan self-determination from Indonesia. UNGA Resolution on Enhancing UN cooperation with the Pacific Islands Forum (PIF) The above resolution was overwhelmingly supported in the UN General Assembly. Indonesia and China however, were among the 12 countries that abstained in the vote. The reasons for abstention could be geopolitical concerns (motivated by some Pacific state’s position on Taiwan and West Papua). Trade Relations In 2016, trade between Indonesia and the Pacific region totaled USD284, 040 million with PNG consistently being the highest trader with Indonesia between 2014 and 2016. Indonesia –Pacific Exposition The first Pacific Expo was held in Auckland from 11 – 14 July 2019 with the theme “Creating a Pacific Momentum”. It was attended by Pacific delegates whose expenses and travel were paid for by the Indonesian government. The second Pacific Expo is scheduled to held in Christchurch in October 2021 with the theme “Its Pacific Time”. The event aims to provide Pacific nations with opportunities for tourism, trade and investment. Activities will include: tourism/ business & health forums; B2B matching; culinary festival and other cultural events.
INTERNATIONAL COOPERATION/ ENGAGEMENT
Indonesia is a partner nation to the Coral Triangle Initiative (CTI) which is a multilateral partnership of countries (Indonesia, Malaysia, PNG, Solomon Is & Timor Leste) working together to sustain extraordinary marine and coastal resources by addressing crucial issues such as food security, climate change and marine biodiversity. During the World Ocean Summit in 2017, Indonesia pledged USD1 billion annually to reduce marine litter by 70% in 2025. In September/October 2019, Indonesia launched its $212 million International Development Aid Fund with a focus on providing disaster/humanitarian relief to countries mainly in Asia and the Pacific. The fund provided aid for PICs - Tuvalu, Nauru, Solomon Is, Kiribati & Fiji in the same year.
Regional/ International Organization Membership Indonesia is a member of the UN (Agencies & Programmes), ADB, APEC, ARF, ASEAN, BIS, CD, CICA (observer), CP, D-8, EAS, EITI (compliant country), FAO, G-11, G-15, G-20, G-77, IAEA, IBRD, ICAO, ICC (national committees), ICRM, IDA, IDB, IFAD, IFC, IFRCS, IHO, ILO, IMF, IMO, IMSO, Interpol, IOC, IOM (observer), IORA, IPU, ISO, ITSO, ITU, ITUC (NGOs), MIGA, MSG (associate member), NAM, OECD (enhanced engagement), OIC, OPCW, PIF (partner), UPU, WCO, WFTU (NGOs), WHO, WIPO, WMO & WTO.
Since the establishment of diplomatic relations in the year 2000, Samoa and Ireland have maintained friendly relations through collaboration on issues of mutual interest and concern at the United Nations and other multilateral fora.
Since formal diplomatic ties were established, Samoa has benefitted from development assistance through regional and multilateral agencies such as the European Union (EU), the UN system, ADB and other agency initiatives.
The State of Israel and Samoa established formal diplomatic relations in the year 1977. Through the United Nations and other fora, Samoa and Israel have worked collaboratively to promote issues of mutual interest such as maintain prosperity, peace and security. Samoa and Israel also share common interest in addressing challenges in the areas of sustainable development, agriculture, human rights, poverty, terrorism, as well as transnational crime and climate change.
In the decades since the establishment of formal ties between the two countries, Samoa has benefitted from Israel through its donation towards Health and Sports sectors as well as the Samoa Victim Support Group (SVSG) and emergency and disaster relief response. In the area of capacity building assistance, Israel also offers short-term trainings through its International Center for International Cooperation which is known by its Hebrew acronym, MASHAV. The trainings offered by the Government of Israel have included courses in the areas of agriculture, journalism, public health and medical programs, community development and integrated rural development.
ITALY – SAMOA BILATERAL RELATIONS
Date of Establishment of Diplomatic Relations with Samoa: 25 May 1987
Bilateral Representation:
Italy diplomatic representation to Samoa: Italian Ambassador to New Zealand, H.E Frabrizion Marcelli is also accredited to Samoa.
Samoa diplomatic representation to Italy: Samoa’s Ambassador in Brussels, H.E Fatumanava Dr Pa’o Luteru is also accredited to Italy.
Samoa’s Honorary Consul in Rome is H.E Papalii Giovanni Caffarelli
Italy’s Assistance to Samoa
Italy’s assistance to Samoa is channeled through the EU, the UN and other multilateral organizations/programs and financial institutions. Italy is one of the largest contributors to the European Development Fund (EDF) that assists in the development of water and community-based projects in Samoa. Its assistance also covers areas of health, environment, sustainable development and capacity building through trainings.
Italy and Samoa’s mutual interests include environment/climate change, human rights, general disarmament, democracy, renewable energy, international peace and security, and terrorism and conflict resolution.
High Level Visits
- December 2015 – Samoa Prime Minister Hon Tuilaepa S Malielegaoi & delegation (Official visit)
ITALY AND THE PACIFIC
Italy became a Dialogue Partner in the Pacific Islands Forum in 2007. Italy’s main support to the region is channeled through the EU (EDF), UNDESA, Red Cross, IUCN and the Pacific Regional Environment Programme. Common priority areas include environment protection, renewable energy and climate change.
PSIDS and the Italian Ministry for Environment, Land and Sea (IMELS) have a Partnership for Climate Cooperation which celebrated its 10 year anniversary in 2017. The Partnership includes 14 PICs and 4 donor countries namely Italy, Austria, Luxembourg and Spain.
Samoa and Japan have maintained close and cooperative relations, since the establishment of formal diplomatic ties in 1973. Japan is one of Samoa’s key development partners. Through its Bilateral Aid Programme, Japan aims to support local efforts towards sustainable economic and social development; strengthen resilience and response to crises and promote peace and stability.
Japan’s Development Assistance Policy for Samoa (DAP) sets out the current priority areas for development cooperation until 2023:
- Environment (in areas such as solid waste management, water & natural environment conservation);
- Climate Change (focusing on climate change adaptation and mitigation, disaster risk reduction & renewable energy);
- Sustainable Economic Growth (including strengthening Digital and Physical Connectivity; and promoting Industrial Development through capacity building and technology transfer);
- Improved Social Services based on Human Security (in areas such as Health, Education, Governance and support for Vulnerable Groups.
Japan’s bilateral assistance is mainly provided as:
- Grant Aid to implement agreed priority projects in areas including but not limited to health, environment, education, disaster risk management & water and sanitation. Grant Schemes include the Grassroots Human Security Programme (GGP), Economic & Social Development Programme (ESDP) & the Grant Aid Program for major development projects implemented by the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA); and
- Technical Cooperation, which includes the provision of JICA technical assistance/short-term & long-term training programs for capacity and institutional development; research and development as well as technical cooperation projects.
The bilateral relationship is also underpinned by people-to-people links as a means of strengthening connections and improving relations and mutual understanding between the two countries mainly through educational, cultural and sporting exchanges. The main programs offered by Japan are:
- Ministry of Education, Culture, Sports, Science & Technology (MEXT) scholarships for research, undergraduate study and teacher training;
- SDGs Global Leaders Scholarship Programme for undergraduate & postgraduate studies;
- Sakura Science Exchange Programme (also known as the Japan-Asia Youth Exchange Program);
- High School Students Summit on World Tsunami Awareness Exchange Program;
- Japan Overseas Volunteers Programme (JOCV) as part of Japan’s Technical Cooperation.
Samoa and Japan hold Annual Official Policy Dialogues to discuss policy considerations, share project/program updates and also explore other specific areas of cooperation for mutual benefits. These dialogues are essential to ensure that the aid programme is well targeted and responsive to Samoa’s development needs and likewise consistent with the priority areas of cooperation agreed to at the Triennial Japan-Pacific Islands Leaders Meetings (PALM).
Aside from its bilateral aid program, Japan’s assistance to Samoa is also channeled through regional and multilateral organizations/programs. This includes support for key projects/programs as well as emergency/ relief assistance in times of natural disaster and health crises.
- August 2019 - E. Ms. Nur Izzah Wong Mee Choo, Malaysian High Commissioner to Samoa (Presentation of Credentials & Hosting of the dinner for the MTCP Alumni)
- Singapore has supported the Pacific Is States in their efforts to combat the COVID-19 pandemic through sharing their experiences in managing the COVID situation in Singapore and development of contact tracing apps.
- In August 2020, Samoa sought the assistance of the Government of Singapore in developing its Contact Tracer App as part of its preparation efforts to combat the virus. MCIT & MoH to discuss this further with Singapore’s Smart Nation and Digital Government Office.
- Bilateral Training Programmes designed and customised to meet the needs of the recipient countries e.g. Singapore Cooperation Programme Training Awards (SCPTA) and the Small Island Developing States Technical Cooperation Programme (SIDSTEC). These programmes generally take the form of training courses or study visits.
- Joint Training Programmes or Third Country Training Programmes (TCTP) are provided in collaboration with other donor partner countries, international organizations and ngos. To date, Singapore has established TCTPs with more than 30 development partners comprising developed countries and international organizations including Australia, Canada, France, Germany, Republic of Korea, New Zealand, Norway, Thailand, ADB, Commonwealth of Learning, Commonwealth Secretariat, ESCAP, IAEA, ICAO, International Maritime Organization (IMO), IMF, UNICEF, UNDP, WB, WHO, WIPO and WTO.
- Singapore Mediation Convention / UN Convention on International Settlement Agreements resulting from Mediation (signed by Samoa on 7 August 2019)
- MoU on Air Services Agreement between Samoa and Singapore (signed on 23 November 2016)
- July 2016 – Hon Fiame Naomi Mataafa, Deputy Prime Minister & Minister of Environment (Water Leaders’ Summit)
Switzerland and Samoa have enjoyed friendly relations based on mutual interest since the establishment of diplomatic ties in 1981. Switzerland’s development assistance to Samoa is mainly provided through agencies such as the Swiss Agency for Development Cooperation (SDC), the UN, and other multilateral organizations in areas of agriculture, governance, environment and climate resilience, and disaster relief. The Swiss Government also offers capacity building programs (in areas specific to Pacific SIDS) as well as fully / partially funded postgraduate scholarships.
Thailand and Samoa bilateral relations began in 1975. The Thailand International Development Cooperation Agency (TICA) is responsible for Thailand’s overseas development assistance and implementing development cooperation. The Government of Thailand offers various forms of cooperation, such as development projects, volunteer and expert programmes fellowships, scholarships and short term training programmes. For scholarships and short term trainings the areas of focus have been in the fields of Climate Change, Food Security, Public Health, SDGs and Sufficient Economy Philosophy.
Official diplomatic relations between Turkey and Samoa was formally established in 1979. The Governments of Turkey and Samoa continue to enjoy friendly relations based on mutual respect and common interests. Turkish assistance to Samoa mainly focuses on capacity building and health. Samoa has benefitted from assistance in capacity building through the offering of scholarships tenable in Turkey for Samoan nationals.
The UK and Samoa have maintained friendly relations since the establishment of formal diplomatic ties in 1970. The two countries continue to collaborate on issues of mutual interest and concern at the UN, Commonwealth, and other multilateral fora. The targeted areas for assistance include climate change and clean oceans, health, disaster relief/response, human rights, energy, security & governance, disarmament as well as sustainable development.
The UK’s assistance to Samoa is mainly focused on capacity building in the areas of education, sustainability, and climate resilience. Samoa benefits from the provision of tertiary scholarships offered on an annual basis under both the UK’s bilateral development programme and Commonwealth Scholarships Programmes. Capacity building efforts have also been offered at the community level through the provision of training programmes in the areas of social development, sustainable waste management and healthcare.
Official diplomatic relations between the UAE and Samoa were formally established in 2010. Samoa and the UAE enjoy close relations at the bilateral and international levels of diplomatic engagement. The UAE's assistance to Samoa is mainly channeled through multilateral organisations such as the Small Islands Developing States (SIDS) group with a focus on education, social and healthcare services and infrastructure.
The United States has had a long history in the Samoan Islands with its first Consul Office founded in Apia in 1856. The United States and Samoa continue to enjoy friendly relations based on mutual trust and in pursuit of common interests. Samoa’s relations with the United States are strengthened by our shared cultural and historical ties with the United States' Territory of American Samoa, our closest Pacific neighbour.
In the decades since the establishment of formal ties between the two countries in 1971, both the United States and Samoa have been strong allies and partners in our bilateral and international engagements. Samoa has benefitted from mutual cooperation in the areas of Community Development and education through its U.S Peace Corps Volunteer Programme . Other areas where the United States has supported in bolstering the Samoan economy is mainly through direct investments earmarked at the community and grass root level and NGO assistance in different areas of focus in line with Samoa’s national development priorities and long term goals . These areas of focus include; Health, Human Development & Capacity Building, Education, Environment & Climate Change, Community Development and humanitarian assistance.
