China and Samoa celebrate at Vailima

By Pai Mulitalo Ale 01 October 2016, 12:00AM

Samoa will always be a very special friend to China.

So assured the Chinese Ambassador to Samoa, Wang Xuefeng, during the celebration of the 67th Anniversary of the founding of the People’s Republic of China at Vailima on Thursday night.

The occasion at the Chinese Embassy was attended by Acting Prime Minister, Hon.Sili Epa Tuioti, Cabinet Ministers, government officials and members of the business community.

For Mr. Xuefeng, the evening had special significance.

“This September happens to mark the first anniversary of the arrival of my wife and myself in Samoa. We have strongly felt the sincere support from Samoan people for China-Samoa friendship and the profound and firm foundation of China-Samoa relationship,” he said.

“In the past one year, we have witnessed with great delight the fruitful results of exchange and cooperation in various fields between China and Samoa. 

“Early this month, the Vice Chairman of the Standing Committee of the National People’s Congress paid a successful visit to Samoa and has reached broad consensus in developing bilateral relations with leaders of parliament and government of Samoa. Several Ministers of Cabinet and Members of Parliament of Samoa have also visited China.

“We are glad to see that three major China-aid projects, namely, the Maritime School of NUS, Loto Taumafai Society National Disability Centre and Siumu Primary School, have been put into use. 

“The first phase of the construction of the terminal building of Faleolo International Airport will be completed by the end of this November. This year, altogether 32 young people have been awarded the Chinese Government scholarship to study in universities in China. More than 250 officials and professionals from various sectors have participated in various specialized training programs in China. 

“Chinese Embassy has also invited the first Samoan Youth Delegation of 11 outstanding young people recommended by NUS and Samoa Observer to go on a 10-day tour to China.

“The bilateral local exchange and cooperation have also developed vigorously. The cooperation between Huizhou City of Guangdong, China and Samoa in such fields as education, medical service and infrastructure has achieved encouraging results. 

“Two Chinese popular TV dramas have been airing on TV1 for the first time in Samoa. China’s UnionPay Card Payment business has been opened, making it more convenient for Chinese people who visit Samoa. Currently we are working closely with concerned ministries of Samoan Government to start several new friendly cooperative projects including the Police Academy, the Cultural and Art Center and the Friendship Park.

“Ladies and gentlemen, we are glad to see that the newly-elected government of Samoa after the successful election in March this year has been trying hard in developing economy and improving the livelihood of people in Samoa. At this happy moment when we are celebrating the National Day of China, we would like to express our heartfelt thanks to the Samoan Government and people for the sincere friendship and strong support to the Chinese government and people in various aspects.

Acting Prime Minister Sili congratulated China and thanked Ambassador Xuefeng for their support.

 “Since formal diplomatic ties between Samoa and China were established 40years ago our two countries continue to enjoy a very close relationship,” he said. 

 “China has made a significant contribution to the development aspirations of Samoa by providing support to projects in health, education, sports, agriculture, infrastructure and many others.”

There is also a large number of Samoan students who have received technical trainings and scholarships to China and these opportunities continue to grow between the countries. 

“Samoa continues where ever it can to support China at various international forums and we look forward to fostering further partnerships in our common tasks to achieve the goals for sustainable development and ensure that no one is left behind.” 

By Pai Mulitalo Ale 01 October 2016, 12:00AM
Samoa Observer

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