The Minister of Communications and Information Technology, Afamasaga Rico Tupa’i, bid farewell to guests attending the 57th Independence celebration late Saturday as the programme was brought to a close.

The lowering of the flag was conducted by the Ministry of Police with Deputy Police Commissioner Papali’i Monalisa Keti leading the Police retreat. 

The flag flown in the gushing winds of Mulinu’u since 6.00am was taken down around 3.00pm, and was handed over to the Prime Minister. 

Speaking on behalf of the Prime Minister and organising committee chair, Afamasaga thanked the invited guests who joined the country in the celebrations. 

“On behalf of the Hon Prime Minister as chairman and the Organizing Committee, we would like to express our sincere appreciation to all our special guests who have joined the celebrations this year in the midst of your busy schedules as leaders of the Pacific and in different parts of the world.” 

The guests in attendance from overseas were le Ulu o Tokelau, the Titular Head of State, Kelihiano Kalolo; U.S. Congress Member Aumua Amata Coleman and Lt Governor Lemanu Peleti Mauga. 

Afamasaga thanked the guests for attending the monumental event of the year for the Samoa Government.

“Thank you indeed for gracing us with your presence and we hope that you have enjoyed the hospitality and the richness of the Samoa culture portrayed not only in the performances today but also throughout the duration of your stay.  

“We acknowledge with gratitude members of the diplomatic corps, representatives of our partner organisations who are here with us. Thank you very much for joining the celebrations. 

“We wish to also thank all those who participated in the March parade this morning and the cultural performances. We thank you for putting on a great show and for showcasing our unique Samoan culture and traditions," he added.

And to conclude the programme, he thanked the Independence Committee for their work to ensure the event took off and ended successfully. 

He also extended the invitation to the guests to return to Samoa in July this year for the 16th Pacific Games 2019. 

“Let me assure you it will be the best games ever.”