June 1 st 2022 will be etched in the history annals of the Samoa-Fiji bilateral
relations when Samoa’s High Commission in Suva hosted at its premises the first
ever Flag Raising Ceremony to mark the 60 th Independence anniversary of Samoa.
Master of Ceremony Taito Louis Lene welcome the guests and members of the
Samoan Community to the new Samoa High Commission chancery in Suva. The
opening sermon was conducted by Rev. Siu Vaifale of the Congregational
Christion Church in Suva, where he also reflected on the struggles of our
forefathers who paved the way for Samoa’s independence.
This was followed by the official raising of the flag by Dr Tauta Perise Maua
McGraig, one of the senior member of the Samoan Community who has made
Suva her permanent home. It was an emotional moment for all Samoans in
attendance especially while singing our “Vii o le Saolotoga” national anthem.
Samoa’s High Commissioner to Fiji Aliioaiga Feturi Elisaia provided remarks
highlighting the significance of the Flag Raising Ceremony taking place for the
first time at Samoa’s own office which coincided with the 60 th independence
anniversary. He also shared some reflections on some of Samoa’s major milestone
achievements in its 60 years journey as an independent and proud nation.
At the conclusion of the formalities, the High Commission hosted a morning tea
reception inside the chancery. Over 50 members of the Samoan community
including some students from USP, FNU and PTC attended the ceremony.
Amongst the attendees included Prof. Upolu Vaai, Dr. Rev Faafetai Aiava, Rev.
Mefiposeta Tupou, Atoese Morgan Tuimalealiifano, Tiatia Dan Lobendahn, Lavea
Iulai Lavea, Leiataualesa Aliki Lavea, Karen Mapusua, Tanuvasa Semy Siakimotu,
Ferila Brown, Rumanusina Maua, Logotonu Meleisea and Anae Joel Nilon.
The Samoan community in Suva welcome the Flag raising ceremony as this is the
first major community event, although small in scale, since the end of the

lockdown in Fiji in the end of 2021. It was also an opportunity for many to catch
up for a talanoa and to visit the new High Commission chancery, which will be
officially opened soon.

Samoa High Commission,
Suva, FIJI,
02 June 2022