Samoa is preparing to open up its international borders and the government has told the National Emergency Operations Center to prepare a plan for the move.
Prime Minister Fiame Naomi Mata’afa said at a press conference this week they have observed the COVID-19 response of other countries and their decisions to open up their international borders, prompting the Cabinet to issue directives for reopening to the N.E.O.C.
“They have been asked to come up with a plan or a recommendation on how we can do what other countries are doing at the moment and their responses and preparations to live with COVID.
Samoa Observer reports the possibility of Samoa opening up its international borders surfaced last week, when Fiame spoke about the country’s preparation to commemorate its 60 Independence Anniversary.
She said an Organising Committee for the celebrations has been appointed and have already started work on plans.
Fiame said that the Organising Committee is to advise on the opening of entries for the design of a logo and theme to mark the diamond jubilee.
She added the Organising Committee will recommend the duration of the celebrations and set a program of events.
The committee will advise whether by that time our borders will be open for any incoming guests, said the PM.
A number of countries have started reopening their international borders for commercial travel according to Fiame.
“We have to start thinking and planning and also there are a lot of requests from our people abroad who want to come for the 60th independence celebration.”
She added that it is yet to be officially confirmed, but a number of New Zealand leaders have advised of their availability to visit Samoa, if the country celebrated its diamond jubilee.
“However, everything depends on the COVID-19 situation and weather conditions for the upcoming plans,” she said.
