The Head of State, His Highness Tuimaleali’ifano Vaaletoa Sualauvi II, has expressed deepest condolences on behalf of the Government and people of Samoa to His Majesty, King Charles III on the passing of The Queen.

The Buckingham Palace in London advised of the passing of Queen Elizabeth II at around 6.30am on Friday morning (Samoa Time). Her death brought to an end her 70-year reign and enabled her son, Charles to ascend to the throne as King Charles III.

In a statement released by the Government of Samoa at 9.53pm on Saturday night, Tuimaleali’ifano said the reign of Queen Elizabeth II "represented strength, stability and inspired leadership."

“Her Majesty's reign represented strength, stability and inspired leadership, and in a rapidly changing world and challenges, Her Majesty's selfless service was a constant point of wisdom and courage for the people of Samoa," he said in the statement. 

“Her Majesty will be warmly remembered for her dedication, unwavering support and immeasurable contribution to the development and advancement of the people of Samoa, the Pacific region, and the Commonwealth family alike."

The Head of State also extended Samoa’s prayers of comfort to the Royal Family, people, and the Government of the United Kingdom during this time of sorrow.

The late Queen Elizabeth lies in State to await her funeral service. She was 96 years old. 

The Queen visited Samoa in February 1977 as part of a 6-week Silver Jubilee tour of Commonwealth countries in the Pacific. As part of the tour of the region, she and her husband Prince Philip used a British Airways Boeing 707 and the royal yacht Britannia.