ADDRESS BY HIS HIGHNESS, THE HEAD OF STATE, MALIETOA TANUMAFILI II ON THE OCCASION OF THE CELEBRATION OF THE 42ND ANNIVERSARY OF INDEPENDENCE OF SAMOA
Malae o Tiafau, Mulinuu, 1st June 2004
His Excellency Archbishop Alapati Mataeliga,
Hon. Member of the Council of Deputies and his Good Lady,
Hon. Prime Minister and Ministers of Cabinet, and their good ladies,
His Excellency Governor Togiola Tulafono and his good lady,
His Honour the Chief Justice and Members of the Judiciary,
Hon. Speaker and Members of Parliament,
Members of the Diplomatic Corps,
Heads of Christian Churches in Samoa,
Representatives of International and Regional Organizations,
Distinguished Guests,
Ladies and Gentlemen.
I extend warmest greetings to you all here in Tiafau this morning, and to all our people tuning in from your homes to share with us this historic occasion. Today is a special day indeed for the whole of Samoa, as we celebrate 42 years of Independence. We give thanks and glory to our Heavenly Father, for His abundant love and mercy on our country. For, despite difficulties and natural hazards that we have encountered, we have persevered; and peace and harmony prevail supreme over Samoa.
As we celebrate this morning the 42nd anniversary of our independence, we remember and pay tribute to our forefathers whose important contributions and quest for freedom ensured the path for independence for our country. Their legacies and sacrifices have bequeathed to us our heritage of an independent and free nation, and the masters of our own destiny. Their dreams and aspirations became reality 42 years ago, and independence is ours to hold and treasure. This morning we once again, memorialize this.
I extend sincere appreciation to our friends and partners in development from overseas who have played an important part in our country’s development. Your assistance and support for the benefit of Samoa has and continues to be invaluable to our growth as a nation. Governor Tulafono and your delegation, I thank you for your continued attendance at our Celebrations each year. I also convey appreciation for the participation of all our guests and visitors from overseas. You have all graced our Celebrations with your presence.
The commitment and service of the public and private sectors, in support of the Government’s vision, and programme of action for economic and social development, for our country, has been an integral part of all our collective efforts, and it is fair to say that we have come this far because of the very close cooperation and partnership between all the principal actors.
But it is also true that our traditional leaders, the women and youth of Samoa have also all played a pivotal role in the development and progress of our communities.
I have observed with a deep sense of pride and satisfaction over these 42 years the overwhelming presence and colourful sights of schools and organizations here in our traditional capital, Tiafau. The participation of our youths in these Celebrations every year ensures the continuity of the dreams and hopes of our country.
You, the youths of Samoa, are the future of our nation. Remain true to our Christian foundation, the cornerstone of our nation, founded upon God. The influx of foreign values and ideas will be a challenge. But the Lord is your strength and inspiration. And He will not fail those who trust in Him.
I ask for God’s blessings on all of Samoa and our distinguished guests and friends. May we all have a most enjoyable 42nd Anniversary of Independence.
Soifua.