American Samoa has an invitation to become a full member of the Pacific Island Leaders Forum , the grouping of independent countries of the Pacific.
This follows the acceptance of the French territories of French Polynesia and New Caledonia as full members of the Forum at its annual meeting in Pohnpei earlier this month,
Lt. Governor Lemanu Peleti Mauga who attended the Pohnpei Forum meeting said at yesterday’s cabinet meeting that American Samoa, which has observer status at the Forum, wants to eventually become a full member.
Governor Lolo told the cabinet that American Samoa wants to strengthen ties with its Pacific island neighbors and also solidify its association with the United States.
He said, “We have an invitation to become a full member of the Forum.” and he has directed the Attorney General to prepare a briefing for the State Department to make it understand why it’s beneficial for the territory to work closely and maintain strong ties with island countries of the Pacific.
According to the governor, it’s important that American Samoa is aware of developments between Pacific Islands and the United States but stressed that the federal government must understand our position with regards to membership and association with island countries.
