King Charles and Queen Camilla have arrived in Samoa ahead of the Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting taking place in the country. On Wednesday night, they were greeted with enthusiasm in Apia by Samoan Prime Minister Fiame Naomi Mataafa and other local leaders.
The royal couple participated in a traditional Royal Ava Ceremony at the National University of Samoa, held by the villagers of Falelatai. Notable attendees included Samoa’s Head of State, Afioga i le Ao Mamalu o le Malo Tuimaleali’ifano Va’aletoa Sualauvi II, and Prime Minister Fiame Naomi Mataafa, along with other Cabinet Ministers.
They also visited the Samoa Culture Village in Matagialalua, where they were welcomed by many Samoan people, including children. The King and Queen observed the various authentic Samoan traditions and customs presented at the cultural center.
The royal family’s visit aims to celebrate the strong relationship between Samoa and the United Kingdom, which has been reinforced by Samoa’s role in hosting the Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting in 2024. During the visit, King Charles is expected to engage with youth, community, and faith leaders while emphasizing themes of sustainability and biodiversity, aligning with CHOGM’s focus on environmental resilience and oceans.
His Majesty’s program includes visits to a mangrove forest and a National Park, where he will see local community efforts to restore and protect essential ecosystems. Additionally, he will plant a tree in Samoa’s Botanical Garden to commemorate the inauguration of a new area, named ‘The King’s Garden.’
Queen Camilla’s agenda will focus on her wider initiatives, including a visit to a traditional Samoan Pastor’s School, where she will observe the education of students in reading and writing. She will also visit the Samoa Victim Support Group to learn about the organization’s services for survivors of domestic violence and sexual abuse.
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