King Charles and Queen Camilla have arrived in Samoa in anticipation of the Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting taking place in the country. The royal couple received a warm welcome from Samoan Prime Minister and local leaders in Apia on Wednesday evening.
The previous day, King Charles and Queen Camilla participated in a traditional Royal Ava Ceremony at the National University of Samoa, joined by the villagers of Falelatai. This ceremony was attended by notable figures including Samoa’s Head of State, Afioga i le Ao Mamalu o le Malo Tuimaleali’ifano Va’aletoa Sualauvi II, Masiofo Faamausili Leinafo Tuimalealiifano, and Prime Minister Fiame Naomi Mataafa, along with other Cabinet Ministers.
The royal pair also visited the Samoa Culture Village in Matagialalua, where they were greeted by eager locals, particularly children. They observed various authentic Samoan traditions and customs showcased at the cultural center.
According to the Royal family’s official website, this state visit aims to celebrate the strong bilateral relationship between the UK and Samoa, which has been further enhanced with Samoa hosting CHOGM 2024. King Charles is set to engage with youth, community, and faith leaders during his stay.
The focus of the King’s agenda will highlight sustainability and biodiversity, which aligns with one of the key themes of CHOGM—”A Resilient Environment”—and the meeting’s emphasis on oceanic issues. His itinerary includes visits to a mangrove forest and a national park, where he will observe local community efforts to restore and protect these essential ecosystems. Additionally, he plans to plant a tree at Samoa’s Botanical Garden to inaugurate a new section designated as “The King’s Garden.”
Queen Camilla’s activities will center around her broader agenda. She is scheduled to visit an aoga faifeau, a traditional Samoan Pastor’s School, to gain insight into the reading and writing education of the pupils. Furthermore, she will visit the Samoa Victim Support Group, which aids survivors of domestic violence and sexual abuse, to learn more about the support services offered to individuals in crisis.
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