Australia’s Governor General, Sam Mostyn, New Zealand Foreign Minister Vaovasamanaia Winston Peters, Tonga’s Prime Minister Fatafehi Fakafanua, and the American Samoan Governor Pulaali'i Nikolao Pula are among the dignitaries confirmed for the Independence Day celebrations.
The King of Tonga, Tupou VI, is already in the country.
The Australian High Commission said the Governor-General and her husband, Simeon Beckett SC will officially visit from 30 May to 2 June 2026.
“Australia and Samoa’s enduring 55-year friendship is built on respect, trust, and a commitment to regional cooperation across shared interests, including security, governance, climate, health, education and economic growth”, said the Governor-General.
During the visit, the Governor-General will ceremoniously hand over the Australian government-supported Samoa Parliamentary Precinct buildings. This includes the Maota Fono (Parliament of Samoa) and the Legislative Assembly office. A third parliamentary building, the Luafatasaga Kalapu Lobby (Members’ Lobby), will also be part of the ceremonial handover (funded by the Government of Samoa).
