P.M. congratulates new U.S. President Trump

By Lanuola Tupufia – Ah Tong 11 November 2016, 12:00AM

Prime Minister, Tuilaepa Sa’ilele Malielegaoi, has offered Samoa’s congratulations to the new President of the United States of America, Donald Trump.

Following Trump’s stunning triumph over Hillary Clinton in the race for the most coveted office in the White House, Tuilaepa reminded that it is God Almighty who appoints leaders in accordance to his will.

 “So let’s just see what happens,” he said. “We know the Lord appoints governments.”

Tuilaepa admitted he is mindful of the outrageous comments made by Trump “about women, deporting all immigrant criminals to their countries” and many others during the campaign. Still these have not swayed the American voters towards the more seasoned diplomat in Clinton.

 “I guess the people of America voted for change,” he said. 

Tuilaepa made reference to Trump’s victory speech, saying Trump’s tone is that of someone who genuinely wants to reunite the country after the bitter divisions created by the elections.

He compared the rivalry between Clinton and Trump to him and the former Opposition Leader, Palusalue Fa’apo II. 

“The arguments were heated just like mine’s and Palu,” said Tuilaepa. 

“I don’t know where he is now but we should team up when he comes back. But in elections there is always that saying by Tui Atua that there is a calm after the storm. 

“But let’s just see what happens because the Bible says that God chooses the governments and leaders.

“We don’t know if this man was chosen because he will bring good things for America and us all. And if he brings trouble, I guess there are a lot of bad things happening in the world that can teach us a lesson.”

Tuilaepa was also asked to comment on concerns the new President will make it difficult for Samoans to migrate to America.

Tuilaepa conceded that he is concerned about that.

“If we look at the speeches he had made during the campaign, it will mean it will be very difficult. It might be easier going to hell now than entering America based on the things he had said.”

Tuilaepa also disagrees with Trump’s views that America should prioritise its own welfare first, saying America should stay away from conflicts elsewhere. 

The Prime Minister said this is why millions of people died in World War 2.  

At the time when Adolf Hitler was persecuting people, the President of America at the time did not do anything until Japan bombed the Pearl Harbour in Hawaii, he said.

“That was when America finally acted but by that time millions had died,” said Tuilaepa. 

“That is why after that World War America no longer stood by and let countries fight their own wars and decided to be at the forefront to protect other countries. 

“It sounds like Trump has that mindset that they should not meddle with other countries’ affairs and focus on their own health and happiness. The world is waiting to hear what he will do.”

Asked about Trump’s administration threatening to cut aid and any agreement between the U.S. and Samoa, Tuilaepa said it wasn’t a concern to him. 

He explained there is one agreement which is the one that U.S. supports Peace Corps mission in Samoa and the Coast Guards and Navy providing maritime policing 

  Tuilaepa added the U.S. has interest in the marine life. 

About aid, the Prime Minister said there are no direct fund from the United States but only through World Bank and the United Nations and other donor countries – including China.

By Lanuola Tupufia – Ah Tong 11 November 2016, 12:00AM
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