The new Ambassador of the European Union (EU) to the Independence State of Samoa, H.E. Ms. Barbara Plinkert presented her Letter of Credence to the Member of Council of Deputies, Afioga Le Mamea Tuiletufuga Ropati Mualia at the credential ceremony held this morning on 26th October 2023. 

On the occasion, Ambassador Barbara Plinkert reaffirmed the European Union’s close partnership with Samoa which is founded on the shared common values and interests. The Ambassador stressed that the EU is keen to further strengthen its partnership with Samoa and develop its cooperation in areas of common interest. Ambassador Plinkert also congratulated Samoa as the host country for the signing of the new Agreement between the EU and the African, Caribbean and Pacific (ACP) countries on 15th November 2023 which will be a historic milestone not only for Samoa but for all member states. 

Afioga Le Mamea Tuiletufuga Ropati Mualia in his response recognized the European Union’s crucial role in helping Samoa achieve its sustainable development goals through initiatives that promote economic growth, social progress, and environmental protection. He acknowledged the signing of the new OACPS – EU Partnership Agreement (Samoa Agreement) in November as a monumental achievement for all regions and Samoa looks forward to welcoming the ACP countries and EU members to its shores next month. Afioga Le Mamea expressed his confidence that the appointment of Ms Plinkert as Ambassador will yield more opportunities in furthering relations between the EU and Samoa as well as the Pacific region. 

Her Excellency Ms. Barbara Plinkert served in various positions within a number of Organizations and has an extensive background. Her Excellency, served an Associate Expert/Programme Management Officer, United Nations International Drug Control Programme from 1998 – 2002. In 2003 she was appointed as Project Coordinator, United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime, Afghanistan and later in 2004 became the Head of Section Tajikistan, Delegation of the European Commission to Kazakhstan. She continued her career in a number of positions serving as the Head of Social Sectors Section, Delegation of the EU to Zimbabwe, Deputy Head of Delegation of the EU to Ethiopia and Head of Division for Headquarters Security and EEAS Security Policy, European External Action Service and EU Ambassador to Singapore in 2017. She is currently the EU Ambassador to the Pacific and is accredited to 13 Pacific Island Countries with residence in Fiji.