Month: May 2025

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KEYNOTE ADDRESS by the Deputy Prime Minister Hon Tuala Tevaga Ponifasio [25th April 2025]

Rev Mariota Siaea

Afioga ile Ao Mamalu ole Malo ma lau Masiofo

Your Excellencies High Commissioners of Australia and New

Zealand

Members of the Diplomatic Corps

Distinguished Guests

Ladies and Gentlemen

Every year at the break of dawn of 25 April, we come to

remember the sacrifices made by the hundreds of thousands of

New Zealanders, Australians and nationals of Pacific Island

countries including Samoa who fought in WW1, WW2 and other

subsequent conflicts.

Today we are all united in remembrance of their fight for our

freedom, independence and for our future as peaceful

communities. Let us not forget those who answered bravely the

call of their country and then fall in its name. We wear on our

hearts the poppy of remembrance.

In many ways, the ANZAC ideals go far deeper than war; it is

what makes one a patriot of one’s country. Despite the

devastation of war, we have learnt lessons from it. Our

knowledge of war defines who we are and where we draw our

boundaries. Even though many of us have not experienced war

first hand, we all understand the horror it results in.

Our hopes and prayers are that we will not experience watching

our children go to destinies unknown in this restless world we

no longer understand.

But for today and forever, let us never forget those who had

made the greatest contribution to ensure our security.

We will remember.

End

Photo by the Government of Samoa (Leota Marc Membrere)

May 22, 2025

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[PRESS RELEASE 25 April 2025] – The University of the South Pacific (USP) Samoa Campus, in collaboration with the Ministry of Natural Resources and Environment (MNRE) Forestry Division, is thrilled to announce a special event promoting environmental sustainability. On Saturday, April 26th, 2025, from 8 AM to 1 PM, the USP Samoa Campus will host a Pop-up Market dedicated to bringing the community together and supporting the MNRE’s 3 Million Tree Campaign.

This family-friendly event invites community members to bring the family to the campus and will have the opportunity to receive free tree seedlings as part of the campaign efforts to encourage tree planting across Samoa.

The USP Pop-up Market promises a vibrant atmosphere with an array of attractions including fresh vegetables, root plants, fresh flowers, kombucha drinks, BBQ food stalls, and handmade crafts by local artisans. Additionally, there will be fun activities for children like a bouncy castle and more.

Visitors can also look forward to a variety of delicious food from Vanuatu and Fiji, locally made and freshly baked goodies, fresh local produce, and an array of pre-loved clothing and household goods.

Event Details:

 Date: Saturday, April 26th, 2025

 Time: 8 AM – 1 PM

 Location: USP Samoa Campus Front Lawn

Join us at this special event where you can enjoy a delightful family day while contributing positively towards our environment by planting trees!

For further inquiries: Contact: Ronna Lee Email: ronna.lee@usp.ac.fj

END.

SOURCE – The University of the South Pacific – Samoa Campus, Apia and Ministry of Natural Resources and Environment Samoa

May 22, 2025

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REMARKS by the Ambassador Fei Mingxing [24 April 2025]

Hon. Laumatiamanu Ringo Purcell, Minister of Sports and Recreation,

Ladies and gentlemen,

Talofa lava! I am delighted to attend the groundbreaking ceremony for the Auxiliary Works of the Ninth-Phase China Aid Samoa Apia Comprehensive Sports Venues Technical Assistance Project today. First of all, on behalf of the Chinese Embassy, I would like to expressappreciation for your long-term support for China-Samoa relations!

The year 2025 marks the 50th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic ties between China and Samoa. Over the past half century, upholding the principle of mutual respect, equal treatment and win-win cooperation, China and Samoa have maintained traditional friendship, close economic and trade exchanges, and fruitful cooperation in various fields, which have delivered tangible benefits to our two peoples. In addition to the Apia Park stadium project, training sessions of Samoan althlets in China, and recent badmington day and table tenis day and others, the Samoa Aquatic Center is a historic witnesses of the friendship and cooperation between China and Samoa.

Since the Samoa Aquatic Center was put into use in 2006, China has sent 9 batches of 29 technical experts to Samoa to provide maintenance support. It has been 20 years. As an important public sports facility, it has promoted the fitness and public health development of Samoa communities. During this period, large-scale events such as the 2006 “Miss South Pacific Pageant” and the 2007 South Pacific Games were held here, which exerted the economic effect of the events and promoted international exchanges.

The purpose of this auxiliary project is to ensure the continued safe use of the Aquatic Center. I hope that the construction teams of both sides will work closely together to ensure the high standards and high quality of the project construction, and train on site as many as possible Samoan workers, commemorating the 50th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between China and Samoa.

Looking into the future, China will further its joint efforts with with Samoa, actively expand practical cooperation in various fields including sports, fully implement the outcome of Hon Prime Minister Fiame Naomi Mata’afa’s visit to China last November, continuously deepeningthe comprehensive strategic partnership towardthe closer China-Samoa community with a shared future.

I wish China-Samoa cooperation in sports sector fruitful, and prosperity for China and Samoa and our two peoples!

Fa’afetai!

Now, I announce the Hilary construction of the Ninth-Phase China Aid Samoa Apia Comprehensive Sports Venues Project started.

Photo by the Government of Samoa (Leaosa Faaifo Faaifo)

May 22, 2025

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[PRESS RELEASE – 24 April 2025] – The Samoa U17 women’s team continues to write history by becoming the first-ever Pacific Island team to reach the semi-finals of the prestigious Dallas Cup in the United States.

Under the leadership of Head Coach Juan Chang Urrea, the first Pacific Island team to participate in the Dallas Cup delivered a historic performance by winning their pool and advancing through the quarter-finals to secure a top 4 finish in one of the most competitive youth football tournaments in the world.

The Dallas Cup appearance was part of Samoa’s preparation for the FIFA Under-17 Women’s World Cup in Morocco in October, after they became the first Samoan football team to qualify for a FIFA tournament when they finished second in the OFC U16 championship.

“This level of preparation is unheard of in the Pacific Islands,” says coach Chang Urrea.

“We are all working together in the Federation to give our team the best preparation possible to make our country and the Oceania Region proud at the World Cup.”

With the support of FIFA Forward Operational funding and OFC, the federation created a detailed plan to prepare the players, scattered across Samoa, Australia, New Zealand and the United States.

Football Federation Samoa (FFS) earlier this year had gathered the team in California for a training camp and coach Urrea says that this time together was already bearing fruit during the Dallas Cup.

In front of huge crowds of US-based Samoan fans who had travelled from different states, the team opened their campaign with a dominant 7-1 win against DKSC, before shocking the Spanish professionals from Villareal with a 2-0 victory.

A 2-2 hard-fought draw against the strong local Dallas Texans completed an unbeaten run and top spot in Pool A.

The fairytale continued in the quarter-finals where the DKSC ECNL team was dispatched 2-0 to set up an intimidating semi-final clash with the FC Dallas.

The academy team from the host city’s professional club proved to be as good as their reputation and despite valiant Samoan resistance, FC Dallas ran out comfortable 5-0 winners to advance to the final.

The stand-out player at the tournament for Samoa was top goal scorer Makea Leonard who bagged 5 goals in 5 games.

Chang Urrea says the wins, but especially the semi-final loss, will provide essential experience against elite opposition and showcased the continued evolution of the team’s style, resilience, and confidence.

“We are incredibly proud of how far these girls have come. This wasn’t just a tournament – it was a major stepping stone toward our World Cup ambitions,” says Chang Urrea.

“Placing in the top 4 of this prestigious tournament is an indication that we are on the right track to compete in the FIFA U17 Women’s World Cup in October this year.”

The team will have their final training camp in June in the United States, before they plan to organise two friendly international matches on their way to Morocco once the World Cup draw has been completed.

END.

SOURCE – Samoa Football

May 22, 2025

Source:

By: Asuisui Fofoa Matafeo

Samoas’ presence and visibility is on the global stage at Osaka Japan World Expo 2025.

Capitalizing on the international stage to profile Samoa’s export commodities and goods complemented by Samoa’s revere tourism profile in bids to attract more visitors to Samoa, the Expo held every five years was officially opened on April 12th 2025.

Her Excellency (H.E) Fa’alava’au Perina Sila Tualaulelei, Ambassador of Samoa to Japan led Samoa contingent at the official opening ceremonies.

She was accompanied by Paul Oteta Ane, Representative of the Samoa Chamber of Commerce and Industry and representative from Government Press Secretariat and Savali Newspaper Principal Videographer and Filming, Asuisui Fofoa Matafeo.

Samoa’s delegation also joined their global counterparts in commemorating the beginning of Expo activities, signaling Samoa’s readiness to share its distinctive culture, innovations, and future-focused vision with the world.

Samoa’s exports and profile will remain on display at her pavilion showcasing handicrafts, clothing, food, and much more providing a wider platform for Samoa’s products to be noticed on the world stage.

With millions in attendance, the Expo reaffirms unity and portray a future society through the ideas of life, world and the future.

Osaka previously hosted a World Expo in 1970 that attracted 64 million visitors.

The Expo is for 6 months and will close this October.

Photos: Asuisui Fofoa Matafeo (Savali Newspaper)

May 22, 2025

Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

     The Secretary for Commerce and Economic Development, Mr Algernon Yau, attended the Seventh Western China International Fair for Investment and Trade (WCIFIT) in Chongqing today (May 22) to promote Hong Kong’s advantages to Mainland enterprises to further enhance co-operation between Hong Kong and Chongqing.

     Organised by the Chongqing Municipal People’s Government, the WCIFIT is an important platform for trade co-operation and investment promotion in the western region of the Mainland. This year, Hong Kong is the guest city of honour of the WCIFIT at which a Hong Kong Pavilion is set up to promote Hong Kong’s strengths and showcase its role as an effective and premium trade and business platform for Mainland enterprises to go global. The Special Event on Chongqing-Hong Kong Co-operation in Modern Service Industry themed “Channelling Global Business through Hong Kong” was also held to foster co-operation and exchanges between the two places in different areas of the modern service industry.

     Addressing the opening ceremony this morning, Mr Yau said that Hong Kong and Chongqing have long maintained close ties, with both places playing their unique roles in the nation’s development. Chongqing serves as an important link between the Belt and Road and the Yangtze River Economic Belt, and is a highly opened-up inland area, while Hong Kong possesses the unique advantages of having strong support of the country while maintaining unparalleled connectivity with the world, and is the country’s southern gateway and a key platform connecting the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area with international markets. Since the establishment of the Hong Kong/Chongqing Co-operation Conference mechanism in 2023, Hong Kong and Chongqing have been actively promoting co-operation on different fronts to leverage the complementarity of the two places and achieve mutual benefits, jointly contributing to the high-quality development of the country and creating unlimited opportunities for enterprises in both places.

     Mr Yau said that Hong Kong is the connecting platform under the national dual circulation strategy, actively serving as a “super connector” and “super value-adder” and as a two-way springboard for Mainland enterprises to go global and for attracting overseas enterprises. He looked forward to more Chongqing enterprises coming to Hong Kong for further development.

     The Secretary of the Chongqing Municipal Committee of the Communist Party of China (CPC), Mr Yuan Jiajun, and Deputy Secretary of the Chongqing Municipal Committee of the CPC and the Mayor of Chongqing, Mr Hu Henghua, also attended the opening ceremony.

     Mr Yau then toured the Hong Kong Pavilion, which covers 600 square metres and showcases Hong Kong’s strengths in areas such as finance, shipping and innovation and technology, as well as the development and achievements of co-operation between Hong Kong and Chongqing.

     Speaking at the Special Event jointly organised by the Commerce and Economic Development Bureau and the Hong Kong Trade Development Council (HKTDC) this afternoon, Mr Yau said that Hong Kong has a mature modern service industry system, while Chongqing is a major economic centre in the western region of the country with a strong manufacturing base and actively promoting the development of the producer services sector, demonstrating strong complementarity with Hong Kong. He added that Hong Kong and Chongqing present enormous potential for co-operation in the services sector. Hong Kong can provide solid support for Chongqing’s development of modern services, while Chongqing’s sizeable market and industrial base offer extensive room for development of Hong Kong enterprises.

     The Special Event brought together government officials, enterprises and experts in the services sector of the two places, as well as a representative from the HKTDC to introduce Hong Kong’s advantages and opportunities, the development of Chongqing’s modern producer services sector, and the unlimited business opportunities under Hong Kong-Chongqing co-operation.

Source: Hong Kong Information Services

Secretary for Housing Winnie Ho introduced the potential and opportunities of Hong Kong’s housing technology development during her visit to Paris, France yesterday.

Ms Ho first visited the Innovation Hub of Schneider Electric to learn how the company applies the Internet of Things, artificial intelligence and robotics to promote building energy efficiency retrofits and achieve smart energy management and net-zero power generation.

With a Housing Department delegation, Ms Ho introduced to them the experience of applying innovative technologies in public housing development in Hong Kong and shared how the Housing Authority promotes and advances the development of innovative technologies at the planning and design, construction and inspection stages of works, and fosters optimisation and upgrading of the construction sector.

In the afternoon, Ms Ho went to the headquarters of Saint-Gobain Group, visiting its iconic Saint-Gobain Tower and its research centre in Paris to learn more about their research, development and production process of green building materials for lowering costs, saving energy and reducing carbon emissions while enhancing indoor comfort.

The housing chief also attended a dinner with representatives of the Business Environment Council and the largest employers’ association in France, Mouvement des Entreprises de France.

They exchanged views on the application of construction technology by frontline staff and the development of smart cities, as well as shared experiences on promoting occupational safety and sustainable development in the two places.

Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

     The Census and Statistics Department (C&SD) released today (May 22) the Consumer Price Index (CPI) figures for April 2025. According to the Composite CPI, overall consumer prices rose by 2.0% in April 2025 over the same month a year earlier, larger than the corresponding increase (1.4%) in March 2025. The larger increase was mainly attributable to the lower ceiling of rates concession in April 2025 when compared with the same month last year. Netting out the effects of all Government’s one-off relief measures, the year-on-year rate of increase in the Composite CPI (i.e. the underlying inflation rate) in April 2025 was 1.3%, also larger than that in March 2025 (1.0%). The larger increase was mainly due to the increases in the charges for package tours as well as inbound and outbound transport fares.  

     On a seasonally adjusted basis, the average monthly rate of change in the Composite CPI for the 3-month period ending April 2025 was -0.1%, and that for the 3-month period ending March 2025 was 0.0%. Netting out the effects of all Government’s one-off relief measures, the corresponding rates of change were both 0.0%.   

Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

     Following are the closing remarks by the Secretary for Financial Services and the Treasury, Mr Christopher Hui, at FSDC-HKSI Capacity Building Programme for ASEAN Financial Executives today (May 22):
 
Daryl (Convenor of FSDC’s ASEAN Advisory Group, Mr Daryl Ng), distinguished guests, ladies and gentlemen,
 
Good afternoon. It is a great pleasure to join you today at the conclusion of this meaningful three-day capacity building programme, co-organised by the Financial Services Development Council (FSDC) and the Hong Kong Securities and Investment Institute. As part of our ongoing efforts to deepen engagement between Hong Kong and ASEAN (Association of Southeast Asian Nations), this initiative has brought together senior financial executives from across the region to explore Hong Kong’s financial ecosystem, exchange insights, and strengthen professional ties. I would like to extend my sincere thanks to all participants and partners who contributed to the success of this programme.
 
ASEAN and Hong Kong: A deepening partnership
 
Over the past decade, we have witnessed a remarkable evolution in the relationship between Hong Kong and ASEAN. Since 2019, ASEAN has become Hong Kong’s second-largest goods export market, following only the Mainland. The deepening co-operation among the Mainland, Hong Kong, and ASEAN reflects a broader shift in global economic gravity from West to East, and highlights the growing importance of regional integration and collaboration.
 
With sustained growth, a young demographic, and expanding capital markets, ASEAN is one of the most dynamic economic regions in the world. As an international financial centre, Hong Kong welcomes ASEAN enterprises to make use of our capital formation strengths to raise funds and expand their global footprint.
 
Indeed, Hong Kong is uniquely positioned as the only place in the world where the global advantage and China advantage converge. Under the “one country, two systems” principle, we serve as China’s gateway to the world’s financial markets and investors. This convergence makes Hong Kong a natural partner for ASEAN enterprises seeking to access global capital and explore new markets.
 
Strategic engagement and institutional support
 
We are not standing still. The Hong Kong Government has been actively strengthening ties with ASEAN member states across multiple fronts. Just last month, I had the pleasure of meeting with the ASEAN-China Joint Cooperation Committee delegation, where we explored opportunities to promote greater connectivity between ASEAN, the Greater Bay Area, and Hong Kong.
 
In alignment with this strategic direction, the FSDC has adopted a targeted outreach strategy to deepen bilateral relations with ASEAN economies. Since 2024, the FSDC has conducted four strategic visits to ASEAN member states, engaging in high-level dialogues with regulators, meeting with industry leaders, and participating in key roundtables to promote Hong Kong’s financial capabilities.
 
To support structured, long-term engagement, the FSDC also established an ASEAN Advisory Group in September last year. This brings together seasoned experts from the financial and professional services sectors to provide strategic advice on market promotion, partnership models, and opportunity assessment. It is a clear signal of our commitment to building enduring financial bridges across the region.
 
Institutional connectivity and market access
 
The growing collaboration between Hong Kong and ASEAN is also reflected in the institutional and regulatory frameworks we have jointly developed. Hong Kong has signed Comprehensive Avoidance of Double Taxation Agreements (CDTAs) with six ASEAN member states – including Thailand, Brunei, Indonesia, Malaysia, Vietnam, and Cambodia – fostering greater tax certainty and investment flows.
 
On the capital markets front, the Securities and Futures Commission (SFC) has established mutual recognition of funds (MRF) arrangements with Malaysia and Thailand. These arrangements streamline the cross-border offering of investment products, enabling eligible funds to gain access to each other’s markets through a simplified process. This not only enhances financial inclusion but also promotes the development of regional asset management ecosystems.
 
In August 2024 during the visit of the Hong Kong SAR delegation led by the Chief Executive to Vietnam, a Memorandum of Understanding was signed between the HKSAR Government and Vietnam, further institutionalising financial co-operation and knowledge exchange between our two markets in the field of fintech, green and sustainable finance, and professional accounting.
 
Hong Kong as a capital formation centre
 
As one of the world’s top three international financial centres, Hong Kong is proud to be a global fundraising hub. Through the Hong Kong Stock Exchange (HKEX), we offer a deep, liquid, and well-regulated capital market that supports a diverse range of issuers.
 
Since 2022, the HKEX has implemented a series of enhancement reforms to provide greater flexibility to dual primary listed issuers and to establish a set of core shareholder protection standards. These enhancements provide greater convenience for companies, including ASEAN enterprises, to list in Hong Kong while meeting international governance standards.
 
We are also expanding our market connectivity. In November 2023, the Indonesia Stock Exchange was added to the HKEX’s list of recognised exchanges, followed by the Stock Exchange of Thailand in March 2025. These developments now allow companies listed on the Indonesian and Thai main boards to apply for secondary listings in Hong Kong, creating new channels for capital raising and investor engagement.
 
We welcome ASEAN companies to seize these opportunities and make Hong Kong their choice for financing and international expansion.
 
Looking ahead: a shared future
 
As this capacity building programme concludes, I hope the past three days have provided not only insights into Hong Kong’s financial system, but also new perspectives on collaboration, innovation, and shared opportunity.
 
This initiative is part of a broader commitment to building long-term partnerships that span institutions, industries, and borders. The connections you’ve made here, across sectors and jurisdictions, are the foundation upon which we can build a more integrated and resilient regional financial ecosystem.
 
Before I close, I would also like to take this opportunity to invite you to the Asian Financial Forum (AFF) – our flagship financial event held every January in Hong Kong. The AFF is a premier platform for public and private sector leaders to exchange views on global finance, investment trends, and cross-border collaboration. Your active participation in the next edition would be immensely valuable, and we look forward to welcoming you again soon.
 
Ladies and gentlemen, as Asia continues to rise, so too does the importance of regional connectivity and mutual understanding. The partnership between Hong Kong and ASEAN is more than economic; it is strategic, dynamic, and full of promise. Let us continue to build bridges, foster innovation, and unlock the full potential of regional co-operation. I would like to thank you once again for being part of this journey, and I look forward to deepening our collaboration in the months and years ahead. Thank you.