Prime Minister Laaulialemalietoa Leuatea Schmidt departed Samoa just before 11 am Thursday for American Samoa after receiving a formal invitation from the territory’s government.

The official Facebook page of the American Samoa Governor’s Office confirmed the Prime Minister’s arrival at the Pago Pago International Airport.

“Honourable Prime Minister Laʻaulialemalietoa Leuatea Polataivao Fosi Schmidt and his wife, Tupea Heather Schmidt, were warmly welcomed upon their arrival in American Samoa for the official opening of the new Fono building. They were greeted at the airport by Lieutenant Governor Pulumataala Ae Ae Jr., along with members of the American Samoa Legislature,” the post said.

“American Samoa extends a heartfelt welcome to Prime Minister Schmidt and his delegation on their first official visit to the Territory,” it added.

The Prime Minister was accompanied by his wife, Tupea Heather Schmidt; CEO of the Prime Minister’s Cabinet, Agafili Tomaimano Shem Leo; and Acting Police Commissioner Leiataua Samuelu Afamasaga.

 The Speaker Auapaʻau Mulipola Aloitafua was also welcomed by the American Samoa Legislature.

Earlier this month, an American Samoa delegation, including House Representatives Vailoata Amituanai and Ape Mike Asifoa, along with House Legal Counsel Nathaniel Savali, visited Apia to deliver the invitation to the Head of State, Afioga Tuimalealiifano Vaaletoa Sualauvi II, and the Prime Minister.

The Head of State will be travelling to American Samoa on Friday.

The Samoan Government has been invited to attend the opening of American Samoa’s new Fono building/Legislature building as guests of honour.