(M.P.M.C. Press Secretary) - Samoa’s late High Commissioner to Australia, Lemalu Tate Simi’s impeccable service was honoured in Canberra last week.

In her congratulatory speech acknowledging the dedication of the new Samoa High Commission’s complex in Yarralumla, Canberra Australia’s Senator Concetta Fierravanti-Wells, Minister for International Development and Pacific paid tribute to the late Lemalu.

“I would also like to take this opportunity to pay tribute to the late Lemalu Tate Simi, former High Commissioner to Australia,” said the Cabinet Minister from the podium. 

“Australia warmly welcomed his appointment as High Commissioner to Australia in 2009. 

“To you Peseta Noumea Simi, (Chief Executive, Ministry of Foreign Affairs) Australians who knew your late husband share Samoa’s sad loss. 

“He was a leading representative for Samoa and the wider Pacific community. 

“He was energetic, dedicated and an eloquent advocate for Samoan interests in Australia and highly respected amongst the Diplomatic Corps and the wider community across Australia. 

“As many of you will know, he was involved in getting this project off the ground. 

“It is fitting, Peseta, that you are here today to see the fruits of his labor, and to you our High Commissioner in continuing with his work.”