The American Samoa Government is seeking to postpone the Atoa o Samoa talks scheduled in September and set it for October 13-15 this year.
This was confirmed in a letter to Prime Minister Fiame Naomi Mata’afa, dated 17 August 2022 from Governor Lemanu Peleti Mauga citing the declaration of a State of Emergency in relation to the volcanic activities in Ta’u Manu’a.
Governor Lemanu said he received the invitation from the Samoa Government, however, due to unforeseen circumstances, behoving the Administration for postponement.
He apologised for the inconvenience caused but said that September is not available for the American Samoa Government.
The Atoa o Samoa Talks, formerly known as Samoa Talks held in July and specified by Fiame as a meet and greet for the two Countries had several issues on their agenda including teacher shortages, opportunities to train residents of American Samoa through the maritime and aviation programs in Samoa, and a proposal by American Samoa to enhance the tourism industry and attract investors, and the US territory as the gateway to the US market were some of the issues discussed during the meetings between Samoa and American Samoa held in the last two days.
Governor Lemanu during the talks says although they are two separate governments that hold different political statuses they are still one people. Atoa o Samoa talks will allow our delegations to discuss cooperation issues between the two Samoas.
Prime Minister Naomi Mata’afa says this fellowship marks the beginning of new administrations of both Samoas, however, the spirit of the two governments working together towards mutual issues remains the goal.
“The communication has begun to strengthen the relationship of our two Samoa Governments.”
