Samoa’s enforcement of maritime laws, combating illicit activities such as illegal fishing, drug trafficking, and smuggling was supported by the U.S. Coast Guard Cutter Harriet Lane last week.

The ship commenced its inaugural Blue Pacific mission trip on Sunday with Samoa being its first international port call.

Enhancing maritime law enforcement capabilities: Government officials from the Ministry of Agriculture and Fisheries and the Ministry of Police, Prisons and Corrections Services, Maritime Division were accompanied by the crew of the Harriet Lane during its three-day ship-rider engagement in Samoa’s exclusive economic zone.

According to the US Embassy, this collaboration will ensure the protection of marine resources, as well as the economic and social stability of Samoa and the wider Pacific region.

Harriet Lane and crew are working closely with local authorities to bolster Samoa’s maritime law enforcement capabilities, strengthening community connections and provide regional support.

The crew of the ship also had community connections and engagement. A quintet from the U.S. Coast Guard Band visited St. Mary’s College and Wesley College, the Mapuifagalele Homefor the Aged and Tanumalala Prison over three days as part of its cultural exchange, sharing a flavour of music from around the world while also featuring the famous Samoan song “Pitonuu Solosolo."

The band had the opportunity on Wednesday to share a few tunes with the Royal Police Band. Both groups of musicians rehearsed together for Saturday morning’s flag-raising. The band concluded its engagement with a pop-up concert alongside the ACC Building which was open to the public.

“The U.S. Coast Guard is honoured to collaborate with Samoa to enhance maritime safety and security," said Commander Nicole Tesoniero, Harriet Lane's commanding officer.

"This mission builds on our longstanding dedication to ensure the safety of seafarers and the protection of maritime resources. We are committed to fostering international cooperation in the Pacific region, and together, we will overcome emerging challenges.”

“The U.S. Embassy is pleased to provide maritime assistance to Samoa through the U.S. Coast Guard," said U.S. Embassy Apia Chargé d’Affaires Noriko Horiuchi.

"Engagements like the visit of the Harriet Lane strengthen our bonds and friendship, promoting safer seas and a sustainable maritime future.

“As Samoa’s closest neighbour in the Blue Pacific, collaborating and sharing knowledge and expertise can heighten safety standards and enhance regional security and stability. The sharing also of different cultures through music, education, knowledge and expertise, also fosters growth and progress on both shores.”  

The U.S. Coast Guard Cutter Harriet Lane crew will continue its engagement with the Government of Samoa maritime agencies, and students at the National University of Samoa, School of Maritime conducting subject matter exchanges, which will include search and rescue, responding to distress calls, and emergencies at sea.