The leaders of Samoa and American Samoa expressed optimism that the Atoa o Samoa discussions, which began last July in the territory, have progressed beyond just talk.
Governor Lemanu Peleti Mauga said, at the opening ceremony, this morning at the ASCC Multipurpose Center, that this was illustrated during the COVID-19 pandemic when the two sides sought help from each other.
He said when outside assistance was not available because of the pandemic, Samoa and American Samoa depended on each other. He said, this spirit of cooperation is what the Atoa o Samoa talks are all about.
He said, in addition to communication between the leaders, there’s also been exchanges and collaboration at the department level.
Samoa Prime Miniser Fiame Naomi Mataafa agreed that progress has been made since the inaugural Atoa o Samoa talks, last July.
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Along with cabinet members, in attendance at the opening of the talks, were the Senate President and Speaker of the House.
Rev. Elder Dr. Aumalesulu Tuifalefa, in his invocation, admonished the leaders to put God first in all that they do, and cited leaders from biblical times who fell from glory because they steered away from God.
