King Charles and Queen Camilla have arrived in Samoa in anticipation of the Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting currently taking place. The atmosphere in Apia was filled with excitement as the royals were greeted by the Samoan Prime Minister and local leaders on Wednesday evening.
On their first day, King Charles and Queen Camilla participated in a Royal Ava Ceremony, akin to a traditional kava ceremony, at the National University of Samoa, hosted by the community of Falelatai. Dignitaries in attendance included 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 members of the Cabinet.
The royal couple also visited the Samoa Culture Village in Matagialalua, where they were warmly received by Samoan citizens, particularly children. They enjoyed witnessing the rich customs and traditions of Samoa showcased at the cultural center.
The visit aims to celebrate the strong relationship between Samoa and the UK, which is expected to be further bolstered by Samoa’s role as the host for CHOGM 2024. His Majesty will engage with youth, community, and faith leaders to address various issues.
King Charles’s agenda will highlight sustainability and biodiversity in line with the CHOGM theme of “A Resilient Environment,” with a particular focus on oceanic conservation. He plans to visit a mangrove forest and a National Park to observe local efforts in the restoration and protection of these essential ecosystems. Additionally, he will plant a tree in Samoa’s Botanical Garden, inaugurating a new area named “The King’s Garden.”
Meanwhile, Queen Camilla will focus on her broader initiatives. She plans to visit an aoga faifeau, a traditional Samoan Pastor’s School, to understand how children are taught literacy. Furthermore, she will meet with the Samoa Victim Support Group, which provides assistance to survivors of domestic violence and sexual abuse, to learn more about the critical services offered to those in need.
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