A new friendship has been forged between the Caribbean nation of Trinidad and Tobago and the village of Mulifanua. The village was given the task of being hosts for Trinidad and Tobago.

On Saturday afternoon, the Minister of Foreign Affairs for the Republic of Trinidad and Tobago, Dr Amery Browne and his team visited Mulifanua.

He was welcomed by members of the village council, the women's committee and the untitled men.

During the ava ceremony, the village mayor Ifopo Matia Fritz Jahnke said they were very sad when they were told the delegations would not have time to meet with them. 

"We were quite sad, we asked the Ministry if the delegations from Trinidad and Tobago would have at least a minute to spare to meet with us, but I was told they don't have the time," he said. 

"But just last night, I received a call from the Ministry that the delegation wants to meet with us today. I was over the moon.

"So despite the little time given to us to host them, we are very happy and blessed to have the Minister meet with us. The Prime Minister could not come as he is attending an important meeting for all leaders so it is understandable. 

"We are happy, we gifted them some of the things our women's committee were working on. Here in our village, 90 per cent of the work is done by our women."

Mulifanua handed over souvenirs such as small boats made from wood and coloured in the Trinidad and Tobago flag with Samoan traditional bags. A paramount chief in the village gifted his ulafala to Sir Amery.

Sir Amery was emotional during their meeting. He said he has travelled to many parts of the world but nothing compared to the love and warmth he has received from Mulifanua.

"Our country has been linked with this beautiful village. We can see the love is so real. There is something that connects us. We are from a small country like you with challenges, at the mercy of mother nature many times, but also connected by love which is obviously on display," he said.

"This friendship will continue, it will not end when we leave Samoa. The strength of the welcome, the sharing of the tradition, the kava and many other things will remain with me for the rest of my life. I will take the photos, videos, and the experience back to the people of Trinidad and Tobago, it will help bring our two countries closer."

Dr Amery said that his visit to Mulifanua was unique and special. He enjoyed the little time he spent with the people. He hopes to return some day.