The Sheraton Samoa Beach Resort was re-opened on Friday after undergoing $26.8 million worth of renovations.

Prime Minister Fiame Naomi Mataafa in her keynote address said this was a milestone for the Sheraton Resort and lifted the standard of resorts and hotels in the country.

Fiame said the reopening of the Sheraton Resort coincided with the Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting, offering the delegates a luxurious stay while in Samoa.

She congratulated the Board of Directors for Sheraton Beach Resort, and the management and staff for a job well done.

Fiame said the total cost of the whole project was $26.8 million and the resort will not be just a destination but a home for CHOGM delegates.

She said the renovations were also a boost for the tourism industry.

Prime Minister said she hoped more projects like this would be undertaken in Samoa to boost the economy.

She also acknowledged the Samoa National Provident Fund for funding most of the project.

SNPF Chairman Panoa Moala did not want to be interviewed saying he's had other commitments at Sheraton.

Marina Grey was the special guest for the day. The government acknowledged the Grey family's contribution to Samoa’s economy as a pioneer in the tourism industry.