Prime Minister of Samoa attends the Pacific Climate Change Conference in Wellington, New Zealand and other Official Engagements – 20th to 25th February 2018

27th February 2018
The Honourable Tuilaepa Sailele Malielegaoi, Prime Minister of Samoa was invited by the Victoria University Wellington and SPREP to deliver the keynote address on the 21st February 2018 at Te Papa to officially open the Pacific Climate Change Conference.

The Honourable Prime Minister in his keynote address highlighted the challenges of climate change across Samoa and the Pacific, and showcasing the action undertaken to address these. "We all have a role to play in seeking the greatest level of ambition from all parties to the Paris Agreement, we understand that there are challenges for all countries but through cooperation, understanding and good faith, we can overcome these," said Prime Minister Tuila'epa.

Samoa has a target of generating 100% of its electricity from renewable energy sources by 2025, taking into account the anticipated increase in electricity demand. In its commitment to climate action, Samoa is also preserving its biodiversity; ensuring mangroves as crucial marine ecosystems are conserved and protected, in turn helping to strengthen resilience against the impacts of climate change. Samoa is also working to keep its waters clean and healthy from land-based pollution with legislation and regulations. Around 80% of marine debris are from land-based sources, all of which present a threat to Samoa's marine wildlife.

The Hon. Prime Minister and delegation (including the Associate Minister of the Prime Minister and Foreign Affairs, the Chief Executive Officer of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs & Trade and the Samoa High Commissioner) attended the official Opening of New Zealand Festival of Arts Waka Odyssey Te whare waka o Poneke Wellington waterfront on Friday 23rd February 2018. On Saturday 24th February 2018, attended the official Kupe Landing and to welcome Samoa’s waka “Gaualofa” during the ceremony held in Petone, Wellington. At the conclusion of his program in Wellington, the Hon. Prime Minister of Samoa and delegation departed on the 25th February 2018 for Auckland and returned to Apia, Samoa on the 27th February 2018.