Speech by Head of State for Independence Urges Sharing

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Samoa‘s 55 anniversary of Independence got off to an early start this morning.

Before the hot sun came up, the flag raising, prayers and address by the Head of State were over and the Independence Parade was underway.

First Lady Cynthia Malala Moliga was seated with dignitaries from off island attending the festivities.

Governor Lolo Moliga was scheduled to attend, however he did not make the trip as he was under the weather.

Also in Apia for the celebrations is Senator Tuaolo Fruean and his wife Fiapa’ipa’i who received a personal invitation from Prime Minister Tuilaepa Sailele Malielegaoi.  

The First Lady traveled to Apia Monday with the Chief of Staff Fiu Johnny Saelua and the Director of Commerce Keniseli Lafaele.

In his address Head of State Tuiatua Tupua Tamasese Efi emphasized the ethic of sharing.

He said, “We must share not only in the benefits of Independence, but also in carrying its burdens and responsibilities.

“If we have a high work ethic and work with a unity of purpose, we can achieve and maintain the kind of Independence our forebears dreamt of and fought so hard for on our behalf.

“If we achieve this we will find substance in the words of the hymn, O le malo e mamalu, o le malo e filemu -A nation which has dignity, is a nation which has peace.”

The dignitaries from off island attending the Independence  celebration include the Prime Minister of New Zealand Simon William Bill English.

He will be at the historic match between the Auckland Blues and the Queensland Reds at Apia Park tomorrow.

Many rugby fans from the territory are also heading to Apia for the game which kicks off at 7:30 pm tomorrow at Apia Park.

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