The Australian Government has pledged a new Guardian-class patrol boat to replace the badly damaged Nafanua II as it celebrates 50 years of diplomatic ties with Samoa. 

Australian Minister for Foreign Affairs, Senator Penny Wong made the announcement on Thursday at the Taumeasina Island Resort after meeting with the Prime Minister, Fame Naomi Mata’afa. 

Prior to fronting the local media in a press conference, Senator Wong congratulated Samoa for its 60^th years of independence. 

She said Australia recognises the importance of maritime support for Samoa and the Pacific and the replacement of the Nafanua II will assist in the island nation’s maritime security. 

Prime Minister Fiame welcomed Senator Wong and thanked her and the Australian Government for their generosity in the developments. 

“I think it’s very generous on the part of the Australian Government and people in gifting us another patrol boat despite the unfortunate circumstances of our last boat,” she said. 

“I hope the lessons learnt from that unfortunate occurrence we can keep these assets that are generously gifted by our partners in especially a very critical area of our maritime security.” 

Fiame and Senator Wong held bilateral discussions with a particular focus on health and issues on security as well as the seasonal workers scheme. 

The leaders also discussed the importance of unity in the region to carry forward the position of the Pacific and ensure that with unity brings higher level of development in the island states. 

Senator Wong said the meeting was “very good” and she was pleased to see ways the two countries can work together on health developments. 

“The new Australian Government wants to put more energy and resources in the Pacific,” she told the media. 

“We’ve made commitment to engage more closely and listen respectfully. 

“We understand we need to work together as part of the Pacific family in ways we are called on to do so now more than ever.
  Senator Wong said the new administration wants to make a uniquely Australian contribution to the Pacific family and are committed to taking stronger actions on climate.

“We were elected with a mandate to do so and we understand how important climate change is to all pacific nations. 

“I was the Climate Change Minister for many years ago and the experience of island nations was crystal clear…the voices has become stronger since that time. 

“Australia values relationship with Pacific deeply and part of the issues is change in direction.” 

Prime Minister Fiame noted climate change is a high priority for both Governments and the Pacific. 

She said she is pleased with the new Australian Government which is a major shift and brings them closer to alignment to Pacific's advocacy on the climate change issue. 

“We feel that this will strengthen the pacific positions on climate change and of course we’ve worked closely with Australia especially in responses to climate impact,” said Fiame. 

“I do want to recognise the former administration, we agree to differ but then as we do as partners and developments we move forward in ways we are able to. 

“We feel Senator with your policy stance we are greatly encouraged not only Samoa but other pacific countries.” 

Fiame also extended Samoa’s appreciation for Australia’s assistance in COVID-19 response together with other partners. 

She also acknowledged the visit by Senator Wong who participated in a Ministry of Health event to further the two countries' collaboration in the health sector.