Head of State welcomes Wales

By Ilia L. Likou 21 June 2017, 12:00AM

The Head of State, His Highness Tui Atua Tupua Tamasese Efi and the Masiofo, Her Highness Filifilia Tamasese welcomed the Wales Rugby Team to Samoa yesterday.

The team was  welcomed with an ava ceremony at the Head of State’s residence at Tuaefu.

The President of Wales Rugby, Dennis Gethin, showed off his impressive Samoan language skills during the ceremony.

 “Faafetai tele lava, fiafia le loto i le auai ai Samoa,” he said. It translate to “thank you, we are delighted to be in Samoa.”

He went on to acknowledge the “warmth” and “wonderful hospitality” shown by the people of Samoa to their visitors."

The Wales team is staying at Sheraton Samoa Aggie Grey’s Hotel where they have been well looked after.

In welcoming the team, His Highness Tui Atua spoke about the friendly and fruitful relationship between the two countries through rugby.

“I want to say that when you come to my home, we’re a family...and you should come quite often,” His Highness Tui Atua said.

The meeting ended with a gift exchange between the team and His Highness.

Wales is in town to play the Manu Samoa on Friday night at Apia Park. The Head of State will be present at the game.

Prime Minister Tuilaepa Sa'ilele Malielegaoi hosted a function last night at Taumeasina to welcome the visitors.

By Ilia L. Likou 21 June 2017, 12:00AM
Samoa Observer

Upgrade to Premium

Subscribe to
Samoa Observer Online

Enjoy unlimited access to all our articles on any device + free trial to e-Edition. You can cancel anytime.

>