Samoa and the People's Republic of China have penned an agreement where citizens from both countries can travel visa-free. 

The Agreement on Mutual Visa Exemption was signed on 23 January 2025, at a special ceremony held during the celebration of the Chinese Spring Festival on Thursday evening. 

The Chief Executive Officer (C.E.O.) for the Ministry of the Prime Minister and Cabinet (M.P.M.C.) Agafili Shem Leo signed on behalf of the government of Samoa while Fei Mingxing, the Chinese Ambassador to Samoa signed on behalf of the Government of China. 

This agreement is expected to significantly ease the movement of citizens between the two countries, promoting tourism, business, and cultural exchanges. Prime Minister Fiame Naomi Mata’afa expressed her optimism, stating, “The Agreement on Mutual Visa Exemption will benefit both countries substantially through ease of international travel.” 

Both the Prime Minister and Ambassador Fei acknowledged that this step was not only timely but also aligned with the 50th Anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between Samoa and China, which dates back to 1975.

The signing of the visa exemption agreement is a direct outcome of high-level talks between Prime Minister Fiame and President Xi Jinping during the Prime Minister’s official visit to China in November 2024. 

The Prime Minister's remarks during the reception highlighted the longstanding and vibrant relationship between Samoa and China. 

“I am pleased to join you all this evening to celebrate the Chinese Spring Festival and welcome the Lunar New Year: The Year of the Snake. On behalf of the Government and People of Samoa, I extend our warm felicitations to the Government and People of China,” she said.

She further recognised the cultural importance of the festival, noting that the Chinese Spring Festival’s recent inclusion in the UNESCO Representative List of Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity in December 2024 was a significant achievement. 

"This places prominence on the traditions and customs of the Chinese people, passed down through generations,” she said.

 "This celebration tonight is not only important for the Chinese community in Samoa but for all of us who share an appreciation for cultural diversity and the strong friendship between our two countries."

Samoa and China’s collaboration spans numerous areas. Over the years, China has supported Samoa in healthcare, education, infrastructure development, agriculture, and cultural exchanges.

Samoa’s health sector has seen substantial support from China’s medical teams, who regularly provide critical services and training for local healthcare professionals. In education, Chinese scholarships and training programs continue to provide opportunities for young Samoans to gain valuable skills.

Key infrastructural developments include the Apia Park/Tuanaimato Sports Centres, the Samoa-China Agricultural Technical Aid Project (SCATAP), the Friendship Park, and the Culture and Arts Centre at Malifa. These projects have left lasting legacies in Samoa, enhancing its infrastructure, sports facilities, and cultural exchanges.

The recent high-level visit by the Vice Minister of the Ministry of Culture and Tourism of China, which followed Fiame's official visit to China.

"These visits symbolize the strong bond of mutual respect and trust that continues to grow," the Prime Minister stated.

As the 50th anniversary of diplomatic relations approaches, Samoa and China aim to further enhance their collaboration to ensure the prosperity and well-being of both nations.

“We will continue to pursue greater collaboration that delivers on our joint interests and addresses key national development priorities,” said Fiame. 

"This will be to the benefit of our two peoples and in line with Samoa’s Development Pathway."