GOVERNMENT OF THE INDEPENDENT STATE OF SAMOA Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade
30th October 2020
The Honourable Speaker of the House Legislative Assembly of Samoa Independent State of Samoa
Dear Mr. Speaker,
In accordance with the reporting requirements of the Public Finance Management Act 2001, I am pleased to submit to you the completed Annual Report of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade for the period of 1st July 2019 to 30th June 2020.
This report documents the activities implemented and achievements by the Ministry within the said financial year, in accordance with its legislations and mandatory functions.
Hon. Tuilaepa Sailele Malielegaoi PRIME MINISTER and MINISTER OF FOREIGN AFFAIRS & TRADE
PO Box L1859, Samoa . Tel(685) 21171 . Fax (685)21504 . web: www.mfat.gov.ws
1
FOREWORD
I am happy to present the Annual Report of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade (MFAT) for the financial year 2019/2020. The report outlines the Ministry’s achievements, initiatives and the key activities carried out during the period in its efforts to implement and perform its mandatory functions.
I acknowledge in particular the strong leadership and guidance by the Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs and Trade, the Hon. Tuilaepa Sailele Malielegaoi as well as the feedback of all our stakeholders in country, and at regional and global levels.
Special acknowledgement is made of the continued support and cooperation of our international development partners represented by both resident and accredited diplomatic missions and intergovernmental organizations to the work of the Ministry during the 2019-2020 financial year as well as to the work of our missions abroad.
I would also like to thank all our stakeholders in both the public and private sectors inclusive of civil society, community based groups and the non-governmental organizations for the important continuous support and responsiveness in relation to the work of the Ministry especially in the delivery of our services towards the effective conduct of Samoa’s foreign relations. This has been crucial particularly in the implementation of our international reporting obligations to the United Nations as was required for the 2nd Voluntary National review report for Samoa.
This year has been particularly important for our work in close collaboration with our line ministries when they had allowed us the opportunity to assist in their participation of international meetings, hosting of international meetings in country and in many instances, cooperate with them on the presentation of Samoa’s position on a wide range of issues.
Lastly, I would like to thank my Management, Heads of our overseas missions and all my staff for their hard work, team spirit and dedication which enabled us to achieve our commitments and many priorities for the 2019 - 2020 financial year way beyond our expectations as well as ensured strengthened systems.
Congratulations on a fine effort and seamless coalescing of collective strengths,common values and hard work
Peseta Noumea Simi CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER 2
TABLE OF CONTENTS: Page
FOREWORD BY THE CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER 2
SECTION 1: The Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade • Our Mandate 4 • Our Functions 4-5 • Our Vision 5 • Our Mission Statement 5 • Our Values and Principles 5
SECTION 2: Organization and Management Structure • MFAT Structure 6-8
SECTION 3: Divisional and Overseas Missions’ Reports • Output 1 - Policy Advice to the Minister 9 - 11 • Sub Output 2.1 - Ambassador at Large for the Pacific Islands 11-12 • Sub Output 2.2 – International Relations Division (IRD) 12-15 • Sub Output 3.1 – Samoa High Commission – Wellington, New Zealand 15-28 • Sub – Output 3.2 – Samoa Consulate General – Auckland, New Zealand 28-30 • Sub Output 3.3 - Samoa Embassy – Brussels, Belgium 30-32 • Sub Output 3.4 - Samoa Permanent Mission to the United 33-40 Nations – New York, United States of America • Sub Output 3.5 – Samoa High Commission – Canberra, Australia 41-48 • Sub Output 3.6 - Samoan Government Student Counsello’s Office – Fiji 48-51 • Sub Output 3.7 Samoa Consulate General - American Samoa 51-55 • Sub Output 3.8 Samoa Embassy – Tokyo, Japan 55-65 • Sub Output 3.9 - Samoa Embassy – Beijing, China 65-71 • Sub Output 3.10 Samoa Consulate General – Sydney, Australia 71-77 • Output 4 – Bilateral Relations Division (BRD) 77-87 • Output 5 - Trade Division (TD) 87-93 • Output 6: Protocol Services Division (PSD) 93-102 • Output 7: Regional Relations Division (RRD) 102-105 Output 8: Legal Services Divison (LSD) 105-109 • Corporate Services & Overseas Missions Division (CSOMD) 109-111
SECTION 4: MFAT COMPARISON DATA • Employee Statistics 111-116
SECTION 5: MFAT FINANCIAL PERFORMANCE 116-118 5.1 MFAT Financial Statement
SECTION 6: Acronyms 118-120
3
Section 1: THE MINISTRY OF FOREIGN AFFAIRS & TRADE
OUR MANDATE: The Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade (hereafter called “the Ministry” was officially established on 1 July 2003 under the Ministerial and Departmental Arrangements Act 2003 (hereafter called “the Act”).
The Act incorporates the former Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the Trade Division of the former Department of Trade, Commerce and Industry.
The Ministry is entrusted with the administration and conduct of Samoa’s foreign relations including trade relations with other nations through its headquarters in Apia, and its Embassies, High Commissions and Consulates abroad. The Ministry is committed to managing Samoa’s international relations to promote Samoa’s national interests and to achieve benefits accruing therefrom for Samoa that are in accordance with the Government’s foreign relations, economic and trade objectives.
Samoa currently has official diplomatic relations with one hundred and one (101) States and is a full member to fifty five (55) major international/regional organizations. Samoa is a full contracting party to many international treaties, ranging from international security and disarmament to human rights, the environment and climate change to maritime and fisheries issues, and economic/financial cooperation and trade arrangements.
The Ministry records, facilitates and advises on Samoa’s accession and ratification of treaties, conventions and agreements. It also carries out depository functions for various regional and international agreements, as required under international law. The Ministry administers the Diplomatic Privileges and Immunities Act 1978.
OUR FUNCTIONS: In carrying out the above Mandate and Mission Statement the Ministry has the following obligations to: • Provide policy advice and representation activities towards the management of Samoa’s foreign and trade relations with other countries; • Provide policy advice and representation activities related to the management of Samoa’s membership of and foreign affairs and trade interests in, international and regional organizations; • Provide policy advice and representation activities towards a regional orientation in the formulation of a common foreign policy for the Blue Pacific – one Continent identity in connection with the Pacific Framework for regionalism including regional strategies • Represent Samoa’s interest and provision of consular services abroad through the Ministry’s diplomatic Missions based in New Zealand, United States, Australia and Belgium; • Develop policies for the management of study and training opportunities as part of bilateral relations and advise Government on matters pertaining to scholarship and training schemes available or introduced as well as changes to bilateral relations as a consequence of emergency and crisis situations; • Formulate, recommend and develop appropriate policies and strategies in consultation with stakeholders on trade policy and trade promotion strategies; • Administer Diplomatic Privileges and Immunities Act 1978, and the effective 4
interpretation of diplomatic and consular privileges under the Vienna Convention as well as establish operational guidelines for host country agreements related to international meetings in Samoa and hosting offices of regional and/or international organisations; • Put in place the requisite guidelines on procedures to be observed and followed in the conduct of foreign relations including processes for accession and ratification of international convention and treaties; • Formulate and review any guidelines towards a foreign policy for Samoa in alignment with natonal, regional and global agendas and development strategies • Support services to facilitate the operations of the Ministry both at headquarters and our overseas missions involves the securing of necessary financial and human resources, maintenance of an efficient and effective corporate framework, and responsible use of available resources.
OUR VISION: Samoa to maintain its role as a regional leader and an active participant in global decision making and to improve trade prospects and opportunities in Samoa.
OUR MISSION: To continue to provide high quality and professional policy advice to Government on the management of Samoa’s foreign and trade relations.
OUR VALUES AND PRINCIPLES: In pursuit of its Mission and Vision, the Ministry is fully committed for its staff to perform with:
• Professionalism • Discretion • Honesty • Integrity • Confidentiality • Transparency • Accountability • Customer focus • Gender ba
5
Section 2: ORGANISATIONAL AND MANAGEMENT STRUCTURE
ORGANISATION STRUCTURE The Ministry has an established career structure, organized into seven (7) core Divisions following the approval from the PSC of the restructure proposal in March 2017. The divisions are the International Relations Division (IRD), Legal Services Division (LSD); Protocol Services Division (PSD)), Regional Relations Division (RRD), Bilateral Relations Division (BRD) and the Trade Division (TD). There is also the Corporate Services & Overseas Mission Division (CSOMD) which provide support services to the core work of the Ministry both locally and for our overseas missions.
The Ministry has operated diplomatic missions in Wellington, Brussels, New York, Canberra, China and Japan and Consulate General offices in Auckland, Sydney and American Samoa. It also administers the Office of the Student Counselor at the University of the South Pacific in Fiji plus Honorary Consuls in various parts of the world. Cabinet has in 2019 approved the establishment of two more missions in Fiji and Geneva.
For the effective and efficient implementation of the above structure, the Ministry has in place eight (8) major objectives in order to realize its vision and achieve its mission. All core divisions recommended under the Restructure have been established and staffed. The objectives are:
• Policy Advice to the Minister: To provide high standard policy advice on foreign affairs and trade development to the Minister and Government.
• Administration and Conduct of Foreign relations: To manage Samoa’s foreign relations in the most effective and efficient manner, including the management of representation of other States and inter-governmental organizations in Samoa.
• To provide essential and appropriate protocol services and government hospitality to visiting foreign envoys and dignitaries as well as coordination and facilitation of international meetings.
• Representation Overseas: To represent Samoa’s interest effectively in other countries and at international fora and also the provision of consular services to Samoans abroad.
• Bilateral Relations: To manage Samoa’s bilateral relations and to oversee the administration of training and scholarship opportunities both overseas and locally in an impartial, transparent and fair manner. Please note that the administration of training and scholarship opportunities has been approved by Cabinet to be transferred to the PSC following the functional review and this will be implemented once the PSC is ready to take full responsibility for these functions.
• Trade: To effectively manage, coordinate and facilitate trade policy issues and trade promotion strategies, and ensure Samoa’s participation in regional and international
6 trading arrangements.
• Regional relations: To manage Samoa’s regional relations as a member of the Pacific Leaders Forum and its membership of all the regional organizations of the Pacific and the extension of this membership as a collective under the Blue Pacific Framework for Regionalism.
• Corporate Services: To provide an effective and efficient support structure to service the core work of the Ministry both locally and in our overseas missions.
7 ORGANISATION AND MANAGEMENT STRUCTURE
MINISTER Tuilaepa Sailele Malielegaoi
Chief Executive Officer Peseta Noumea Simi
Ambassador at Large
Overseas Missions Leiataua Dr Kilifoti Leiataua
ACEO Trade ACEO International ACEO Regional ACEO Corporate ACEO Protocol ACEO Bilateral Legal Services Division Relations Division Relations Division Services & Overseas Services Relations Division Division Missions Division Division Nella Tavita-Levy Francella Desna Solofa Tagaloa Sharon Constance Tafua Strickland Palepa Amosa Fata Brian Kaio Potoi-Aiafi Rivers-Lesa
Samoa Consulate General – American Samoa
Manogiamanu Fonoti Etuale Ioane Office of the Student Counsellor -
Fiji
Samoa Consulate General - Auckland Louis Ofele Lene
Faolotoi Reupena Pogi
Samoa Embassy - Beijing
Tapusalaia Terry Toomata
Samoa Embassy - Brussels
Fatumanava Pa’olelei Luteru
Samoa High Commission - Canberra
Hinauri Petana
Permanent Mission of Samoa to the United Nations – New York Aliioaiga Feturi Elisaia
Samoa Consulate - Sydney
Auseugaefa Vaasatia Poloma Komiti
Samoa Embassy - Tokyo
Faalavaau Perina Sila-Tualaulelei
Samoa High Commission - Wellington
Papalii Leasi Tommy Scanlan
8 Section 3: DIVISIONAL AND OVERSEAS MISSIONS REPORTS
OUTPUT 1: POLICY ADVICE TO THE MINISTER
PROFILE: The provision of high quality advice on foreign affairs and trade development issues to the Minister and Government
1. SUMMARY OF FINANCIAL YEAR (FY) 2019/2020 HIGHLIGHTS
The Ministry continued to provide quality advice to the Minister and other Ministers of Cabinet on the following:
i) key policy issues affecting the conduct and management of our relations with major development partners: Australia, China, European Union, Japan, New Zealand, the United Nations, Asian Development Bank, World Bank the United States and the UK as well as other countries that we have close diplomatic ties with. The key policy issues identified are of utmost importance in the pursuance of the Government’s efforts and priorities for the development of Samoa;
ii) key policy issues that can provide a demonstrable role for Samoa to influence regional and global agendas through active representation and best practice examples
iii) High Level Talks on NZ’s Pacific Reset strategy at Waitangi with the resultant Samoa-NZ partnership Framework, Australia’s Step Up strategy in Canberra, the conduct of the EU-Samoa Political dialogue in Brussels in February 2019 Membership of Samoa in the interim EPA, the Samoa UK EPA were formalized and accession to the PACER Plus.
iv) The invitations to Samoa to host a number of regional and international meetings including the SPREP annual meeting chaired by Samoa, the ACP Fisheries ministerial meeting, the Pacific Energy and Transport ministerial meeting, the China Pacific Economic Forum and the Pacific Sports ministers meeting during the hosting of the 2019 Paciifc Games. On the 2nd-6th March 220 Samoa hosted the first ever CRC session outside Geneva and New York and we supported the engagement of Pacific youth including Samoa in these processes in the discussions of the rights of the child
v) Given the changing geopolitical situation in the region, the Prime Minister was invited to present Samoa’s perspectives on related issues at Victoria University on how Samoa was adapting to the growing foreign interests in the region
vi) Our role as a regional leader in sports exemplified by the hosting of the 2019 Pacific Games at short notice and participation in international sports events such as the Rugby and Netball World Cup tournaments
9 vii) Samoa was represented at a number of important regional meetings such as the Forum Leaders meeting in Tuvalu where the Boe Declaration on Security was adopted, the regional leaders meeting on Anticorruption and the Israeli Pacific summit in Fiji. Australia’s support to the Security Declaration and our own security policy was demonstrated by initiatives such as the handover of the Nafanua II to our then Deputy Prime Minister in Freemantle.
viii) The year under reporting was marked by the measles epidemic which took 83 lives mainly of childen under the age of 5. The ministry’s role was to facilitate the deployment of 45 emergency medical teams from 15 different countries as well as supplies of equipment , medications and vaccines for the mass immunization campaign in collaboration with WHO in order to achieve herd immunity. The ministry also played a focal role in coordinating the national report on the epidemic which was tabled at Parliament but had never been debated on.
ix) Official visits included included that of Mr Winston Peters who visited in December to assess the status of NZ’s response to the measles epidemic. Prime MinisterAdern also transited through Apia on her way to the Tokelaus.
x) We did not participate at a number of international events given our preoccupation with the epidemic and subsequent cancellations due to the rapid onset of the COVID 19 pandemic.
MINISTRY ACHIEVEMENTS DURING THE 2019/2020 FINANCIAL YEAR 1. Overseas Ministerial Engagement
i) 74th United Nations General Assembly : New York: 19 – 30 September : New York ii) Signing of the Agreement with Japan for the Lady Samoa :Japan : 4 October and Manu Samoa Game 5th October 2019 iii) COP 25 Madrid Spain iv) Samoa-EU Political Dialogue v) Forum Leaders meeting Tuvalu vi) Leaders Anticorruption meeting Kribati vii) CRGA SPC Conference viii) Israeli-Pacific Summit
International Conference/workshop hosted in Apia:
i) Pacific Islands Sports Ministers Meeting and the Pacific Games : 6th July 2019 The theme of the Pacific Islands Sports Ministers Meeting was on ‘Strengthening Sports and Sustainable Development in the Pacific’ ii) Pacific Games : 7 – 20 July 2019 iii) Women, Peace and Security Summit: 22 – 23 August 2019 iv) The 6th Meeting of ACP Ministers in charge of Fisheries and Aquaculture: 10 – 13 September 2019 v) Fourth Pacific Regional Energy and Trasnport Ministers Meeting: 16 – 20 September 2019 vi) 3rd China Pacific Forum : 21 October 2019
10 This forum is the result of the anouncement made by President Xi at the APEC meeting in Port Moresby, PNG in November 2018. The forum aims at elevating strategic partnerships and enchancing bilateral ties between the Chinese Government and the individual Pacific Island countries.
2. Ministerial and official Visits: i) China International Development Cooperation Agency (CIDCA Visit: 28 July 2019
The delegation from the CIDCA was led by Mr Zhou Liujun, the Vice Chairman of CIDCA. The purpose of the visit was to have exchanges with the Government of Samoa on the direction of future projects including the Vaiusu Port Project and to seek the assistance of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade with the feasibility study and project approval.
ii) 1918 Influenza Memorial Launch and Rededication Service: 23 August 2019 at Vaimoso – attended by the Minister for Social Development of NZ Hon Carmel Sepuloni
iii) Transit stop by the Prime Minister of New Zealand: 27 – 28 August 2019 on her way to the Tokelaus
3. OTHER ACHIEVEMENTS OF THE MINISTRY
i) The Guideline on the Hosting of Meetings in Samoa 2019
The Guideline for Hosting Meetings in Samoa was prepared by the MInstry on the instructions of the Prime Minister. The purpose was to assist the other Government Ministeries and Corporations on the important protocols, procedures and the institutional arrangements that must be taken into account before a recommendation is made to host any meeting that involves international representation and requires Government obligations. The Guideline was approved by Cabinet on 15 January 2020 and was subsequently shared with the other Ministries and Corporations.
ii) Secondment of Senior Foreign Service officers to our Offices in Beijing, New York and Brussels
Due to border restrictions as a result of the unprecedented impact of the Covid19 pandemic, all our foreign service officers who have been approved by Cabinet to go on overseas postings have had to postpone their appointments until border restrictions are lifted.
OUTPUT 2: CONDUCT OF FOREIGN RELATIONS
SUB-OUTPUT 2:1 AMBASSADOR AT LARGE FOR THE PACIFIC STATES
PROFILE: The post of Ambassador-at-Large for the Pacific States was established by Cabinet decision in April, 2015 for a 3 year term. The decision included an appointment to this position and accreditation to all Pacific countries (Pacific Forum Members) outside Australia and New Zealand. The post was extended by Cabinet to another year and in May 2019 the
11 incumbent was reappointed by Cabinet for another 3 year term as per FK(19) 18 dated 8 May 2019 with the following additional portfolios: The Ambassador at Large to be the Interim Secretary for the Polynesian Leaders Group; and Other duties as may be directed by the Prime Minister. The Ambassador-at-Large is based in Apia and this position reports to the Honourable Prime Minister.
ENGAGEMENTS During the period covered in this summary report, the Ambassador-at-Large had a number of regional engagements including the following:
1. Travelled with the Prime Minister and delegation to attend the Pacific Islands Leaders Forum Meeting in Tuvalu from 13th-16th August 2019
2. Polynesian Leaders Group (PLG) work With Samoa’s offer in 2018 to provide space for the PLG secretariat, initially to be with the office of the Ambassador at Large. As part of these engagements, the Prime Minister had given approval for the Ambassador-At-Large to be the interim secretariat and subsequently to assist with American Samoa’s preparations to host the PLG’s annual meeting which was tentatively scheduled to be held in American Samoa on 14 April 2019 and is now postponed as a result of the COVID19 border restrictions.
3. Regular provision of reports and briefings to the Prime Minister and the Chief Executive Officer of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade on events and developments of importance in the Pacific countries, as well as actions and decisions taken outside the Pacific island countries with significant actual or potential impact on all Pacific island countries.
SUB-OUTPUT 2:2 INTERNATIONAL RELATIONS DIVISION (IRD)
PROFILE: The IRD is charged with the management of Samoa’s foreign relations including the management of representation of other states and intergovernmental organisations in Samoa and ensuring accurate implementation of Samoa’s foreign policy in all international fora and through conventions or international organisations Samoa is a member of.
1. SUMMARY OF FINANCIAL YEAR (FY) 2019/2020 HIGHLIGHTS
1. Successful hosting and facilitating of Samoa’s engagement in key international, regional and bilateral meetings or visits including national workshops Despite the measles and COVID 19 that cancelled most of the meetings for second half of the reporting period, we still supported the Ministry in hosting and/or facilitating active participation in around 26 High Level meetings and more than 70 official meetings/workshops both in Samoa and overseas. All required briefings, statements or reports to help ensure Samoa’s active engagement in all the meetings.
12 This included the historical meeting of the Committee on the Rights of the Child held outside Geneva and New York for the first time, regional ministerial meetings in sports, energy and maritime, ACP Aquaculture and Fisheries Ministerial Meeting, the 3rd China Pacific Island Country Economic Development Cooperation Forum, Women Peace and Security Summit and Pacific sustainable development Forum and VNR workshop. We also supported Samoa’s hosting of the Pacific Games.
In all the meetings and workshops we hosted Samoa not only ensured we maintain the high standards on delivering on our hosting responsibilities but more importantly that we shape and influence the outcome to reflect our key priorities on the issues discussed, and through these shape also the international agenda on the issues to reflect Samoa’s priorities.
2. Meeting of reporting obligations for Samoa We prepared and/or were involved in around 30 reports or submissions with some of the big reports for the Arms Trade Treaty project, SAMOA Pathway review, Beijing Platform of Action review and SDG implementation. Samoa submitted its Second Voluntary National Review report on the implementation of the SDGs and is the first SIDS and Pacific country to do so.
Confirm submission of all required annual reports on disarmament conventions such as Arms Trade Treaty and Chemical Weapons Convention and helped facilitate the submission and review of some of the reports for Human rights and Multilateral Environment Agreements.
3. Conventions - Facilitated and supported the signing, ratification and/or accession of 5 new conventions for Samoa related to intellectual property, rule of law and the economy.
4. Provided policy advice for around 27 High Level Meetings led by Prime Minister or other Ministers For the reporting year we have provided support through briefs, statements, position papers and others as requested for around 27 international meetings the Prime Minister and other ministers participated in. Some of the key meetings included the United Nations General Assembly meetings in New York, the Pacific Island Forum meeting in Tuvalu, High level visit to Japan and the ministerial meetings held in Samoa as mentioned earlier. Despite the many meetings cancelled due to COVID 19 and measles, compared to the previous reporting period, we had similar numbers of high level and international meetings for 5 months compared to the whole year last year.
5. There was also an increase in the number of countries who requested to establish diplomatic relations with Samoa such as Armenia, Mauritius, St Lucia, Rwanda and Venezuela for which approvals were processed however formal signing have not eventuated due to COVID 19 restrictions.
6. Increase in number of briefs and analyses provided for elections in international organizations.
13 We provided analyses for more than 120 candidates for around 26 elections in different international organisations. To ensure Samoa’s position on these elections, we have to ensure that the right candidates are selected that can improve the work of the different organisations and understand the issues and needs for small states like Samoa when they take up the positions in these different organisations. Around 5 elections were postponed to next reporting period due to COVID19.
7. Continue to facilitate official travels and participation of government officials with an average of 30 officials assisted in a month, including facilitating the rotation of our police peacekeepers to the missions in Darfur and South Sudan. Since the measles epidemic this number has dropped given the stop on official travel.
2. MAJOR ACHIEVEMENTS DURING THE FY 2019/ 2020 FOR THE DIVISION • Increased recognition of role Samoa plays in the international arena particularly on issues such as ocean, Climate Change, Human Rights, Disarmament and Sustainable Development
Samoa is the first SIDS to submit its Second Voluntary National Review on the implementation of the SDGs. The report that was coordinated by the SDG Taskforce which is chaired by MFAT received high reviews and saw nationwide engagement of different stakeholders. The report was well received internationally and Samoa continues to set an example for the whole UN on SDG implementation. The hosting of the 84th Session on CRC was also a historic first for the Human rights treaty bodies and we continue to provide SIDS specific solutions to the implementation of Human Rights obligations through some of our work on SADATA and the NMIRF. Our contributions in climate change, oceans, disarmament and peace and security was further recognized this reporting period through our hosting or playing a leading role in various gatherings and regional or global discussions on these issues.
• Improved engagement with other ministries and stakeholders recognizing the importance of MFAT contribution to national policies and positions
The increase in engagement and recognition by the other government ministries and key stakeholders of the role of MFAT can play and importance of foreign policy consideration in shaping or implementing other national policies was an important achievement. The consistent messaging and positions in terms of representation in international meetings is an important deliverable for the division through the meetings it organizes or attends, or through the policy briefs and submissions it provides.
The division has seen an increase in its involvement in different national consultations on policies and more importantly more frequent and improved engagement with stakeholder especially through its role as secretariat support for key national committees MFAT Chairs such as the SDG Taskforce, National Mechanism for the Reporting and Follow up of Human Rights obligations (NMRF) and the Maritime Boundaries Committee. For maritime boundaries
14 Ministry successfully coordinated the delegation and led the Sydney talks with New Zealand and USA to progress the maritime boundaries discussions.
• Strong outcome for Samoa from the meetings held in Samoa, and increased recognition of Samoa’s leadership on key issues of concern at the regional and international arena
Other than the positive impact meetings had on Samoa’s economy and our reputation for being excellent hosts, the outcomes of these meetings were key for us to further shape the priorities and interventions of the regional organizations, and international organizations such as the UN and treaty bodies.
Our active engagement continues to see respect for Samoa’s position and role on certain issues such as human rights, rule of law, disarmament, SDGs, oceans and peace and security. This also contributes to the recognition by regional and international organizations, and development partners through flow of projects funds and also requests for Samoa to host meetings, workshops or lead discussions on key priority issues for Samoa and the region.
3. LINKAGES OF ACHIEVEMENTS TO THE SECTOR PLAN/ SDS How we portray Samoa to the outside world is key to meeting all the outcomes of the SDS. This requires a combined effort of the Ministry to strengthen foreign relations with all partners and to create new partners. It is an important role also of the Ministry to ensure the outside world understands Samoa’s position, its priorities and needs. A better understanding and appreciation by the outside world of our priorities is important to ensure we benefit as a people and country from our foreign relations. This ensures the support we need to meet our goal of an Improved Quality of Life for All. As Chair also of the SDG taskforce the Ministry now actively engages in all the sector plans that help implement the SDGs and the SDS.
OUTPUT 3: REPRESENTATION OVERSEAS
SUB-OUTPUT 3.1 – SAMOA HIGH COMMISSION - WELLINGTON
PROFILE: The Samoa High Commission in New Zealand is located in Wellington and was established in 1977 to promote Samoa’s economic, trade, political, tourism and security interests. It is supported by the Samoa Consulate-General in Auckland and is responsible to the Government of Samoa through the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade.
The current High Commissioner is H.E. Mr Leasi Papali’i Tommy Scanlan who, on 6th April 2012, presented his Credentials to then Governor General of New Zealand, H.E. The Rt Hon Sir Jerry Mateparae. H.E. Scanlan is now into his third term as Head of Mission concluding in March 2021.
15 The Samoa High Commission currently employs a total of six staff, comprising of the High Commissioner; two posted staff - Counsellor and First Secretary; an Executive Assistant to the High Commissioner; an Accounts Officer and a Driver.
CORE FUNCTIONS:
• ensure that Government’s interests are represented and promoted in New Zealand as well as countries accredited to Samoa • facilitate and coordinate official or state visits from Apia, working closely with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade of New Zealand • arrange visas for Government Officials/Nationals travelling to countries which are accredited to Samoa in Wellington • provide advice to Head Office pertaining to requests from Diplomatic Missions in New Zealand which are accredited to Samoa. • provide assistance to Samoan scholarship students studying in New Zealand • provide consular advice on immigration matters, repatriation, deaths and emergencies to Samoa Nationals in NZ • provide exemptions as well as passport waiver notes for Samoan and Foreign nationals travelling to Samoa
1. SUMMARY OF FINANCIAL YEAR 2019/2020 HIGHLIGHTS
1.1 National Day Receptions
Due to nationwide Government COVID-19 social restrictions (27 March – 9 June), physical gatherings were difficult and, in many cases, not possible hence several National Days were cancelled or postponed to a later date.
The Samoa High Commission cancelled its Independence Day Reception which was scheduled for 1st June 2020. A Church Service, however, was held on Zoom where the High Commissioner delivered the Keynote Address to commemorate Samoa’s 58 years of Independence.
1.2 Samoa Language Week
On the last week of May every year, the Samoan language and culture are celebrated throughout New Zealand. During this time, the people of Aotearoa (including the NZ Parliament) are encouraged to speak Samoan and wear Samoan clothes. The theme for this year’s Samoa Language Week was ‘Tapena Sou Oso mo Lau Malaga’ – (Prepare yourself a Gift for your Travels). Due to the lockdowns from COVID-19, most of the commemorations and celebrations were carried out on line. The High Commissioner delivered the Keynote Address to open the Samoa Language Week in Wellington.
1.3 Pacific Island Heads of Mission (PIHOM) Meeting
The PIHOM Meeting was hosted by the Samoa High Commissioner, H.E. Leasi Papali’i Scanlan at the High Commissioner’s residence on the 26th July 2019.
In attendance were the High Commissioners and representatives from the Cook Islands, Fiji, Niue, Papua New Guinea, Solomon Islands, and Vanuatu with Tuvalu conveying their apologies.
16
The Samoa High Commissioner and Dean of Diplomatic Corps, H.E. Leasi Papali’i Scanlan chaired the meeting and was accompanied by the Counsellor, Mrs. Belinda Filo-Tafunai. The Deputy Secretary of the Pacific and Developments Group at the New Zealand Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade, Mr. Jonathan Kings was invited to the PIHOM meeting as Guest Speaker. Mr. King’s presentation was based on the New Zealand Government’s direction in furthering close relations with the Pacific and provided an update on the Recognised Seasonal Employment Schemes that has benefited the Pacific people over the years.
1.4 Ambulance for Samoa
The High Commissioner (HE Leasi Scanlan) and Mrs Joyce Scanlan attended the Ceremony to recognise and thank the large number of businesses and people who helped with their time, skills and financial support towards the Project of providing an Ambulance for Samoa. The Ceremony was held at the Headquarters of Wellington Free Ambulance (WFA).
The Rotary Club of Port Nicholson in Wellington, with the support of their non-government organisation (Rotary New Zealand World Community Service Ltd), have been fundraising for several months to refurbish, repaint and fund the transport to Samoa of an ambulance donated by Wellington Free Ambulance. The Ambulance is less than 10 years old and is in excellent condition. It comes with all the necessary emergency and medical fitouts.
In March 2020, the High Commissioner was invited to be the Guest Speaker (on Samoa/New Zealand relations) at one of the Port Nicholson Rotary Club’s breakfast meetings where the keys for the Ambulance were handed over to him.
Mr Mike Grant (the Chief Executive of WFA) welcomed the invited Guests and spoke of how happy they were in being able to assist the people of Samoa through provision of an Ambulance.
17
In his address, the High Commissioner thanked (on behalf of the Samoan Government and People) the President and Members of the Port Nicholson Rotary Club for their kindness and love which resulted in this amazing initiative. His Excellency also thanked WFA as well as all those who contributed in one form or another towards the Project.
The High Commissioner noted that the Ambulance will be hugely beneficial for Samoa not only in times of emergency but also in delivering much needed medical supplies and services, especially to the rural areas where close to 60 percent of Samoa’s population reside.
1.5 Official Visit by the Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs, Hon.Tuilaepa Sailele Malielegaoi
The Prime Minister of Samoa, Hon Tuilaepa Sailele Malielegaoi accompanied by the CEO of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs & Trade, Ms Peseta Noumea Simi and the CEO of the Ministry of the Prime Minister & Cabinet, Mr Agafili Shem Leo arrived Wellington on Friday 21st February 2020.
QS Subject Focus Summit at the Victoria University of Wellington
The QS Subject Focus Summit, hosted by the Politics & International Studies Department of Victoria University on 21st February, brought together leading academics and policy-makers to explore different perspectives on the changing geopolitical and geo-economic dynamics of the Asia Pacific Region.
The Prime Minister, Hon. Tuilaepa S. Malielegaoi delivered the Keynote Address titled “The Response of Small States to the Global Power Shifts in the Pacific”.
Several prominent speakers from New Zealand and Offshore also spoke at the Summit.
18
Photo: QS Subject Focus Summit
Briefing with NZ Government officials and dignitaries
The New Zealand Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade hosted the Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs and Trade, Hon. Tuilaepa Sailele Malielegaoi to a lunch briefing at the Bolton Hotel on 21st February 2020. Briefing was attended by the delegation from Samoa and High Commissioner.
The purpose of the briefings was to discuss bilateral and regional issues and update on post measles epidemic as well as New Zealand’s COVID-19 response. They also discussed New Zealand’s Pacific Immigration Policy including other regional matters.
1.6 Pacific Parliamentary Forum
Political leaders from eleven (11) Pacific Island countries and territories attended the Pacific Parliamentary Forum held in Wellington from 27th -28th November 2019.
Held every three years, the Forum is billed as an opportunity for emerging political leaders from the Region to meet with New Zealand parliamentarians and discuss major challenges and opportunities in the Pacific.
The Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Natural Resources and Environment, Hon. Fiame Naomi Mata’afa was invited to attend the Forum.
19 PHOTO: RNZ PACIFIC / KOROI HAWKINS New Zealand's Speaker of Parliament, Hon Trevor Mallard, on behalf of the New Zealand Government, expressed the importance of knowledge sharing and the relationships formed during such Meetings.
Earlier in the week, the Pacific Leaders visited electorate offices in Auckland and met with list MPs.
In Wellington, they participated in Select Committees and Forum debates on how to work together internationally on critical issues.
1.7 Te Papa’s New Head of New Zealand and Pacific Histories and Cultures
Photo: The Museum of New Zealand Te Papa
A Pōwhiri took place at Te Papa’s Marae – Rongomaraeroa on 22nd June 2020 to welcome new Museum staff including Togialelei Dr. Safua Akeli Amaama in the role of Head of New Zealand and Pacific Histories and Cultures. Samoa’s High Commissioner and Dean of the Diplomatic Corps, H.E Leasi Papali’i T Scanlan, was present at this event together with several members of Dr Safua’s Family as well as a number of other members of the Diplomatic Corps from the Pacific.
1.8 Farewell Receptions for Departing Heads of Mission
The Samoa High Commissioner and Dean of the Diplomatic Corps, H.E Leasi Papali’i T Scanlan, on behalf of the members of the New Zealand Diplomatic Corps, hosted farewell receptions and presented gifts for the departing Heads of Mission who concluded their terms of duties in the year 2019-2020:
• HE Mr David Vogelsanger – Ambassador of Switzerland on 8th August 2019 • HE Mr Mario Bot – High Commissioner of Canada on 8th August 2019 • HE Mr Mr Tarek Elwassimy – Ambassador of Egypt on 8th August 2019 • HE Mr Mario Alzugaray Rodriguez - Ambassador of Cuba on 29th September 2019 • HE Mr Cristiano da Costa - Ambassador of Timor Leste on 3rd October 2019 • HE Mr Bernard Savage - EU Delegate to New Zealand on 24th October 2019
20 This financial year has been difficult as several Heads of Missions including diplomatic staff have postponed travels in and out of New Zealand due to travel restrictions imposed as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic.
1.9 Agréments, Credentials, Official and Farewell Visits to Samoa
The Mission facilitated requests received from Diplomatic Missions based in Wellington and accredited to Samoa for:-
Agréments (7) Credential Visits Official Visits Farewell Visits (0) (6) (4) Ambassador- H.E Mr Michael Winzap H.E Mr Fasto Lopez designate of Ambassador of Crozet, Ambassador of Egypt, H.E. Mrs Switzerland to Samoa, Argentina visit 10th -15th Dina Farouk el 1st -7th March 2020 November 2019 Sehy issued on 4th March 2020 Apostolic H.E Mr Muktesh Kumar Professor Dr. Rodrigo Nuncio- Pardeshi, High Fernandez More, designate, Commissioner of India Brazilian Candidate for Archbishop to Samoa, 11th -14th the International Novatus March 2020 Tribunal for the Law of Rugambwa the Sea visit 6th -8th issued on 4th September 2019 March 2020 High H.E Mr Stefan H.E Dr Itzhak Gerberg, Commissioner- Krawielicki, Ambassador of Israel designate of Ambassador of visit 5th -8th October India H.E Mr Germany to Samoa, 2019 Muktesh K. 26th -29th February Pardeshi issued 2020 on 14th February 2020 Ambassador- H.E Ms Vuyiswa Tulelo, H.E Nur Izzah Wong designate of High Commissioner of Mee Choo, High Thailand, H.E. Mr South Africa to Samoa, Commissioner of Danai 7th -12th October 2019 Malaysia visit 17th -22nd Menabodhi September 2019 issued on 4th March 2020 Ambassador- H.E Mr Peter Ryan, designate of Ambassador of Ireland Poland, H.E. to Samoa, 9th -13th Grzegorz Kowal October 2019 issued on 9th March 2020 Ambassador- H.E. Ms Nur Izzah designate of Wong Mee Choo, High Germany, H.E. Commissioner of
21 Mr Stefan Malaysia to Samoa, Krawielicki 27th August-1st issued on 18th September 2019 February 2020 Ambassador- designate of Switzerland, H.E. Mr Michael Winzap issued on 20th February 2020
1.10 Revamping of the Samoa High Commission Website and Launching of Facebook Page
Following the difficulty and high cost in updating the Samoa High Commission Website, Protronics Limited had been tasked to revamp the website with a focus on making updates and uploading of documents and images easier. In June 2020, a revamped website was launched, based on the Word Press platform. A Samoa High Commission Facebook page was also launched alongside the revamped website. Both of these mediums have greatly improved the High Commission’s communication with the public.
2. MAJOR ACHIEVEMENTS DURING FINANCIAL YEAR 2019/2020
2.1 Bilateral
General Development Assistance:
India
• Centre of Excellence in Information Technology (CEIT) – the CEIT program was launched in March 2020 with National University of Samoa (NUS) as the implementing partner together with the Centre Development of Advanced Computing (India) in providing IT courses to NUS students. • Vehicle for Transportation of Prisoners to and from Taumalala Prison Facilities – proposal submitted by the Samoa Prisons and Correction Services to the Indian High Commission for a custom-made escort vehicle to transport prisoners to and from Taumalala prison
Republic of Korea
• 2020 Official Development Assistance (ODA) Project – the Goshen Trust Mental Health Services submitted a proposal for a vehicle and multi-purpose shed. The project was approved by Korean authorities in February 2020. The vehicle, purchased from Toyota worth US$32,000 and parts for the multi-purpose shed were purchased from H&H Holdings and Bluebird Lumber (US$2,604 and US$3,200 respectively).
22 Assistance for the Measles Response:
New Zealand
• Forty four (44) New Zealand nurse vaccinators working on one-week rotations. The nurses joined Samoa’s mass vaccination campaign, which vaccinated 132,935 people since 20th November 2019. • Thirty five (35) doctors, nurses and support staff were deployed as part of the New Zealand Medical Assistance Team (NZMAT). The three NZMAT rotations have been working alongside Samoan health personnel, providing support and treatment in a district hospital on Upolu and the main hospital in Apia. • Two (2) deployments of Samoan-speaking medical professionals to provide support for the measles response and across the health sector, including psychological support for Samoan health staff and affected communities. • Intensive care unit (ICU) specialists. • Seven (7) New Zealand Red Cross nurses, worked with the Samoa Red Cross on the vaccination programme and measles response. • A Biomedical Engineer to support the laboratory at Samoa’s main hospital, Tupua Tamasese Meaole. • An engineer to support Samoa’s generator facilities under pressure at the height of the outbreak. • Funding for 100,000 vaccines provided by UNICEF, and the supply of 15,000 vaccines from New Zealand. • Medical supplies and equipment, including items to support oxygen production for Samoan hospitals, laboratory equipment to ensure effective medical testing of measles patients, vaccination fridges which were essential for storing vaccines, as well face masks, gowns, hand sanitiser, and stretcher beds.
India
• Monetary funding assistance from the Government of India of US$250,000 in response to the Measles Appeal
Israel
• Eleven (11) members Emergency Medical Team (EMT) deployed from the Israeli Centre Disaster Medicine
France
• Deployment of two (2) epidemiologists for First Mission, followed by the ten (10) medical personnel for Second Mission (1 paediatrician; 8 nurses and 1 health specialist).
Italy
• Monetary assistance of €106,000 (US$108,000) via the UNICEF Bilateral Emergency Fund.
23 United Kingdom
• Deployment of sixteen (16) medical personnel approved by the UK Secretary of State for International Development.
Papua New Guinea • Deployment of fourteen (14) medical personnel accompanied by the High Commissioner of Papua New Guinea, H.E. Brigadier General (Ret) Francis Agwi.
Assistance for the COVID-19 Pandemic Response:
Republic of Korea • Nine (9) special web seminars held virtually by the Republic of Korea health and security officials in sharing experiences on policies and technology to assist with the COVID-19 response.
India • Eight (8) Indian Technical & Economic Cooperation (ITEC) e-courses on India’s experience with and response to COVID-19.
Ireland • Ireland committed a SIDS’ package which included US$1 million to the International Federation of the Red Cross (IFRC) for pandemic preparedness in the African, Caribbean and Pacific SIDS, working with National Societies of the Federation of the Red Cross and health ministries. In addition, through the IFRC support, Ireland provided US$2 million via the Asian Development Bank (ADB) for assistance to Pacific SIDS. A further US$300,000 was used to support non-Pacific SIDS which are members of the ADB.
Canada • Canada contributed CAD$500,000 to the IFRC sub-regional office for the Pacific based in Suva, Fiji in direct response to the IFRC COVID-19 Appeal for Asia-Pacific. The Samoa Red Cross Society received part of the funds to assist Samoa’s efforts in the fight against the COVID-19 pandemic.
New Zealand • New Zealand provided direct budget support of NZ$5.5 million to assist Samoa during COVID-19 pandemic. • Assistance also included the repatriation of six (6) China based Samoan scholarship students who were flown to New Zealand along with other New Zealand and Pacific nationals. The scholarship students undertook quarantine at a managed facility in New Zealand before being transferred to Samoa. • COVID-19 testing facilities with samples of possible cases in Samoa were sent to New Zealand laboratories for assessment.
Requests for Repatriation from Samoa The Samoa High Commission has also been contacted by several other diplomatic missions on repatriation of their nationals from Samoa.
24 • Germany- the EC Delegation in organised repatriation of 10 German nationals and 34 EU/ETA/British nationals • Solomon Islands- sixteen (16) Solomon Islands nationals
Trainings/Workshops, Scholarships and Meeting/Conferences Opportunities for Samoa:
Not all opportunities were taken up
Country Training Scholarships Meetings Germany Forum for Food & Agriculture 16-18 January Hungary World Hunting Nature Exhibition Budapest 2021 India - India Commonwealth Youth Cricket Coaching Camp, National Cricket Academy, Bengaluru, 1- 30 October 2019 - (ITEC) Programme Courses: 20 per calendar year. ITEC e-courses: 8 (replacing on site courses). All based on India’s COVID-19 experience Second General Assembly of the International Solar Alliance New Delhi, India - 31 October 2019 Indonesia International Workshop on Ecotourism for Archipelagic and Island States, Menado, Indonesia, 26- 27 October 2019 Pacific Exposition, Auckland, 11 – 14 July ’19 Second AISF Ministerial Meeting Manado, 1 /11/19 12th Bali Democracy Forum 5-6 /12/19 Israel Israel-Pacific Island Leader's Summit Nadi, Fiji on 20 February 2020 Italy Pacific Small Island States Senior Officials Programme to Visit the Italian Civil Protection System, Italy, 9 to 13 December 2019 Malaysia Malaysian Technical Cooperation Programme (35 courses – 34 have been cancelled) Albukhary Foundation Malaysia Scholarships Mexico 2020 Mexico Mexican Government Scholarships for Foreigners (2 slots available for Samoa) Thailand Annual International Training Courses (17 courses – 5 have been postponed) Thailand International Postgraduate Programme for 2020 Turkey 88th Izmir International Fair & Izmir Business Days held in Izmir, Turkey from 5-6 September 2019 UK United Kingdom Hydrographic Office Seminar, 11-15 November 2019 Invitation to the Education World Forum 2020 London, 20-22 January 2020
2.2 Mafutaga Faifeau
The High Commission continues to maintain a close working relationship with the Mafutaga a Faifeau in Wellington, as the key connection to the Samoan Community not only to support community-led initiatives but also for our activities that would require the support of our Communities here in New Zealand.
2.3 FAGASA (Faalapotopotoga mo le A’oa’oina ole Gagana Samoa i Aotearoa)
FAGASA continues to provide in-depth knowledge of the methods and curricula being taught and shared in primary and tertiary levels in Samoa that would be beneficial for Samoa-New Zealanders as well. The High Commissioner is the Patron of FAGASA and supports all its activities, including the Samoa Language Week, the Schools’ Samoan Speaking Competitions as well as their Annual Conference.
25 2.4 Business Network and Private Sector
The High Commission has been actively engaged in supporting the Business Network and Private Sector initiatives especially for the New Zealand Samoa Trade, Samoa Business Network and other organizations such as Pacific Trade and Invest and Pacific Cooperation Fund which supports the growing Samoan business community here in New Zealand in association wit the Trade Consul.
Scholarship Students
The High Commission continues to provide support towards Samoa’s scholarship students here in Wellington and host an annual get together every year in March which is used as an information networking session. However, due to the COVID-19 level 4 lockdown, the annual get-together for 2020 was cancelled.
2.5 Pacific Islands Heads of Mission Group Meetings
Quarterly meetings are held on a rotational basis between the Pacific Islands Heads of Mission hosted at their Chanceries where updates and key issues of interest from each of the countries are presented. There are eight Pacific Missions established in Wellington. These are; Cook Islands, Fiji, Niue, Papua New Guinea, Samoa, Solomon Islands, Tuvalu and Vanuatu.
The COVID-19 lockdown restriction resulted in the rescheduling of PIHOM meetings.
2.6 Samoa High Commission Chancery Project
In November 2019, Cabinet approved the awarding of the Contract for the construction of the SHC’s Chancery to ‘Southbase Construction Ltd’. Unfortunately, because of the winning company’s intention to move out of Wellington, the Project had to be retendered.
Following the review of the second tender submissions, Cabinet approved on 16th June, 2020 the recommendation of the Samoa Government Tenders’ Board for the contract to be awarded to Wilson Construction Ltd, a construction company based in Wellington. Construction of the Project which commenced on 13 July is progressing well.
In December 2019, there was an official ground-breaking ceremony for the completion of the Car Deck on Clermont Terrace (behind the current SHC’s temporary office) with the blessing by Father Vilo Hansell. The Car Deck was built to facilitate the parking of SHC Staff and Visitors’ vehicles while construction of the new Chancery was taking place. Father Vilo was also invited to bless the construction site of the new Chancery.
26
3. SAMOA HIGH COMMISSIONER’S ROLE AS DEAN OF THE DIPLOMATIC CORPS
Since the beginning of 2017, the Samoa High Commissioner (HE Leasi Scanlan) became the Dean of the Diplomatic Corps. As such, the High Commissioner hosts and chairs two Meetings during the year of the Diplomatic Corps (50 Missions in total). He also represents and speaks on behalf of the Diplomatic Corps at Official NZ Governments Functions (such as the Waitangi Day Celebrations) and the laying of wreaths at memorial services.
At the end of the year, the High Commissioner hosts all the Heads of Mission and their Families at a Pre-Xmas Get-together at the Samoa High Commission Residence. Other than the High Commissioner and the Mission Staff’s time, there is no extra cost to the Samoan Government for the carrying out of the additional duties that come with the honour of being the Dean of the Diplomatic Corps.
4. LINKAGES OF ACHIEVEMENTS TO THE SECTOR PLAN/SDS
The Mission’s core activities and functions are in line with Samoa’s Strategy for Sustainable Development 2016-2020 “Accelerating Sustainable Development and Broadening Opportunities for All”
5. CONSULAR ACTIVITIES
The number of Apostille certifications actioned by the Samoa High Commission decreased significantly from 174 in the previous financial year to 128 in this financial year. The absence and eventual reduced frequency of flights (for cargo) between Samoa and New Zealand may have contributed to this. Surprisingly, the number of Visas and Exemptions arranged experienced a year-on-year increase of 3 and 29, respectively. The number of Waivers processed however were halved, from 67 to 33:
APOSTILLES: 128 VISAS: 80 WAIVERS: 33 EXEMPTIONS: 127
27 Repatriation of Samoan Residents from New Zealand
In late March 2020, the Samoa Government closed its borders under the State of Emergency. As a result, many Samoan nationals who were due to depart New Zealand for Samoa from late March to May, had to await the operation of repatriation flights. The High Commission collaborated with the Consul General’s office to develop the registry for repatriation.
6. HUMAN RESOURCE MANAGEMENT
6.1. Human Resource/Achievement
The staff at the Mission is being managed by the Head of Mission in accordance with the terms and conditions stipulated in their respective contracts as well as in the guideline for Diplomatic Officers in the Samoa Foreign Service.
6.2 Staff Training and Capacity Building
Staff were exposed to a brief training conducted by Protronics Limited (company who revamped website) on how to update the Samoa High Commission website including amending of page content and uploading of news items, images and documents.
7. FINANCIAL MANAGEMENT
7.1 Achievement of Key Performance Targets for the FY
The financial budget and accounts of the Mission are managed in accordance with the requirements of the Public Finance Management Act 2001, Treasury Regulations, Treasury Instructions 1977 and Foreign Affairs Instructions and Regulations.
7.2 Assets Management
The Mission’s assets are being managed in an effective manner with all the resources registered. The Mission has set a target where the assets registry list is reviewed and updated every six (6) months.
8. CHALLENGES DURING THE PERIOD
The COVID-19 pandemic presented many challenges to the Mission due to the Levels 3 and 4 lockdown restrictions. Despite the fact that Diplomatic Missions were regarded as ‘essential services’ the decision was taken for the High Commissioner and most staff to work from home. Only the Counsellor and First Secretary were allowed to visit the Office from time to time.
SUB-OUTPUT 3.2 - OFFICE OF THE CONSUL GENERAL - AUCKLAND
PROFILE: The Samoa Consulate in Auckland is charged with the provision of consular, immigration and passport services to the Samoan Community in New Zealand. It is also responsible for the facilitation of travel by Samoan dignitaries/VIP visiting or transiting New Zealand,
28 promotion of trade and investment, tourism and assisting on a limited basis with the RSE Scheme.
1. SUMMARY OF FINANCIAL YEAR (FY) 2019/2020 HIGHLIGHTS i. The office financial operation for the year was as per budget and vote items collected. During the year the following revenue collected as per mandate: Passports • 544 First/New adult passports issued $136,000.00 • 148 Lost/damaged adult passports issued $44,400.00 • 42 Emergency First/New adult passports issued $21,000.00 • 26 Emergency Lost/Damaged adult passports issued $14,300.00 • 87 First/New Child passports issued $10,875.00 • 17 Emergency Child passports issued $2,975.00 • 624 passport exemptions $93,600.00 • 152 passport exemption transfers $15,200.00 Sub Total $338,350.00
• 404Passport Waivers $8,080.00 • 1 Endorsement of Names $60.00 • 49 Certificates of Identity $2,940.00 • 227 Birth Certificates $3,405.00 • 6 Marriage Certificates $90.00 • 6 Name Changes $360.00 • 111 Police reports obtained from Samoa $3,330.00 • 5 Repatriation of deceased/ashes $500.00 TOTAL $357,115.00
2. MAJOR ACHIEVEMENTS DURING THE FY 2019/2020 FOR THE MISSION
The mission was able to fulfil all its obligations as per mission statement.
3. PLANNED COMMITMENTS NOT ACHIEVED DURING THE FY Most of commitments were achieved.
4. LINKAGES OF ACHIEVEMENTS TO THE SECTOR PLAN/ SDS The Government commitment to provide Consular services to Samoans living overseas.
5. HUMAN RESOURCE MANAGEMENT
5.1 Human Resource/ Achievements All staff carried out their duties satisfactorily.
5.2 Staff Training and Capacity Building Continued on the job training for staff.
29 6 FINANCIAL MANAGEMENT 6.1 Achievement of Key Performance Targets for the FY All Key Performance Targets for the year were achieved.
6.2 Assets Management All the assets were managed properly.
7 CHALLENGES DURING THE PERIOD The lockdown restrictions from the covid19 affected Consular services provided by the office during the first half of the year when it was closed for 3 weeks. The office was instructed to keep a register of Samoan returning residents stranded in NZ during the COVID19 lockdown for the planned repatriation flights.
8 RECOMMENDATION TO CABINET The Office is working closely with MOF on the changes approved by Cabinet on managing the new Samoa Consulate Complex.
SUB-OUTPUT 3.3 – SAMOA EMBASSY - BELGIUM
PROFILE: The Embassy in Brussels is charged with representing the interest of Samoa to the Kingdom of Belgium and concurrently to the European Union as well as to the Secretariat of the African, Caribbean and Pacific (ACP) Group. The mission is accredited to Germany, France, Italy, the Netherlands, Sweden, Spain, Switzerland and to the United Kingdom and the Commonwealth as the High Commission of Samoa. It also carries out consular responsibilities in connection with the requirements of Samoan citizens living in these countries.
1. SUMMARY OF FINANCIAL YEAR (FY) 2019/2020 HIGHLIGHTS
i. Chairmanship of the Ambassadorial Working Group on ACP Headquarters Building since 2015; ii. Chairmanship of the Ambassadorial Working Group on the Revision of the ACP Secretariat Staff Regulations since 2016; iii. Chairmanship of the Working Group on Fisheries and Aquaculture; iv. Facilitated the 6th ACP Ministers of Fisheries and Aquaculture Meeting held in Apia from 10th – 13th September 2019. v. Chairmanship of the ACP Subcommittee on Sustainable Development from 1 February 2019 to 31 January 2020 vi. Chairmanship and core member of the ACP Pillar 2 Technical Negotiating Team; vii. ACP Lead Negotiator on Means of Cooperation and Implementation with EU; viii. ACP Lead Negotiator for Pacific – EU Regional Protocol; ix. Pacific core member of the ACP Central Negotiating Group on Post-Cotonou; x. Capital and Mission attendance to the 6th ACP Ministerial Central Negotiating Group (CNG) Meeting held in New York in September 2019; xi. Facilitated Hon. Faumuina Tiatia Liuga’s participation and attendance to the 54th Session of the ACP Parliamentary Assembly and inter-sessional meetings of the ACP-EU Joint Parliamentary Assembly held in Brussels in October 2019;
30 xii. Facilitated Hon. Faumuina Tiatia Liuga’s participation and attendance to the 55th Session of the ACP Parliamentary Assembly and the 38th Session of the ACP-EU Joint Parliamentary Assembly held in Kigali, Rwanda in November 2019; xiii. Attended EC briefings for the 7th EU-Pacific EPA Trade Committee Meeting in Suva in September 2019; xiv. Coordinated a regional response, through the PACP Ambassadorial Group, to address concerns regarding the EU Council’s List of non-cooperative jurisdictions for tax purposes signed by the Chair of the Pacific Islands Forum in October 2019; xv. Facilitated site visits of SNPF Properties for the SNPF CEO in October 2019; xvi. Led Samoa’s delegation at the 110th Session of the ACP Council of Ministers, and the 9th Summit of ACP Heads of States and Government held in Nairobi, Kenya in December 2019; xvii. Facilitate and support the attendance of the Deputy Prime Minister Hon. Fiame Naomi Mataafa delegation to the 7th ACP Ministerial Central Negotiating Group (CNG) Meeting and the Samoa-EU Enhance Political Dialogue held in Brussels in February 2020; xviii. Attended the 40th Session of the UNESCO General Conference held in Paris, France in November 2019; xix. Attendance to the 123rd Session of the IMO Council held in London, UK in November 2019; xx. Attended several Commonwealth Board of Governors, Executive Meetings (current Pacific representative on the Exco), and other briefing sessions hosted by UK government and Commonwealth Secretary-General.
2. MAJOR ACHIEVEMENTS DURING THE FY 2019/2020 FOR THE MISSION
i. Signing by the Deputy Prime Minister Hon. Fiame Naomi Mataafa of the revised Georgetown Agreement in Brussels in February 2020; ii. Completed internal review of local staff positions and filled all vacancies in line with Belgian employment system by June 2019;
3. OTHER EVENTS AND OFFICIAL VISITS
i. Facilitated visits for meetings by officials from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade (October 2019, February 2020), Samoa NPF (October 2020), Ministry of Finance (February 2020), Ministry of Education, Sports and Culture (November 2019), Ministry of Works Transport and Infrastructure (December 2019); ii. Attended numerous meetings with representatives of the EU Commission, missions and international organizations as well as attendance to many national day celebrations, missions’ and international organizations functions and receptions; iii. PACP Meeting to review and shortlist applications for the new position of ACP Assistant Secretary General in charge of Environment and Climate Action. Ms Cristelle Pratt from Fiji is the successful candidate. iv. Attended and hosted multiple meetings with Pacific Ambassadors and visiting senior staff of PIFS, and v. Elections attended to during the period include the election for IMO Council Membership, election of the UNESCO Executive Board, election of the ACP Secretary General.
31 4. CONSULAR ACTIVITIES 1 Temporary Resident permit for an internship with the Ministry of Natural Resource and Environment was issued for the period.
Other consular activities included facilitation of passport applications, requests for Samoan citizenship and renunciation thereof, retrieval of BDM documents, apostille certification and others. Many enquiries that were received and attended to were related to visa, tourism, business, education, environment etc.
5. HUMAN RESOURCE MANAGEMENT 5.1 Personnel and Gender Distribution - The Accounts Officer Ms Tessa Dussart recruited in March 2019 resigned in December 2019 due to personal reasons. Recruitment and Selection process for the new Accounts Officer was completed in February 2020. However, due to COVID-19 restrictions on normal office operations, the 2-year contract with selected candidate Mr Jose Reyes officially started in May 2020.
5.2 Staff Training and Developments - Attended various meetings and elections through the period
6 FINANCIAL MANAGEMENT
6.1 Achievement of Key Performance Targets for the FY - Participation in some meetings outside of Brussels was funded by event organizers; - Some events not budgeted for were undertaken such as hireage of VIP room airport costs.
6.2 Assets Management - Some replacement furniture and office/IT equipment purchased for the Chancery, Samoa House, and Embassy staff Apartments.
7 CHALLENGES DURING THE PERIOD - Managing resources including re-prioritizing activities and payments until the next bimonthly advance is received from Apia; - Audit Reports for the period 2014-2015, 2015-2016 and 2016-2017 carried out in 2017 has yet to be received. - Planned Audit in February 2020 for the period 2017 – 2020 was delayed due to COVID-19 pandemic. - COVID-19 pandemic in Europe disrupted usual Embassy activity as Belgium authorities required mandatory teleworking from March 2020 until May 2020.
32 SUB-OUTPUT 3.4 – PERMANENT MISSION OF SAMOA TO THE UNITED NATIONS - NEW YORK
PROFILE Samoa applied for membership of the United Nations Organization (UNO) on 29 November 1976 as the “Independent State of Western Samoa”. The UN Security Council unanimously endorsed the application on 1 December 1976 and the United Nation’s General Assembly also supported by consensus on 15 December 1976 the Security Council’s decision making Western Samoa the 147th member state of the organization, almost 15 years since the attainment of independence on 1 January 1962.
About 21 years later in July 1997 after joining the UN, the prefix “Western” before Samoa was removed from the name and Samoa was officially known in the UN simply as the “Independent State of Samoa” to recognize the constitutional amendment passed by Parliament in the same month for the same reason.
Samoa’s Permanent Mission to the United Nations was established in 1977. It is based in New York where the Headquarters of the United Nations Organization is located. As the biggest and representative global organization with a current membership of 193 states, the Mission’s primary role is to work with member states within the United Nations framework to help achieve some of Samoa’s foreign policy objectives. The Mission plays an advocacy role to articulate and advance Samoa’s positions on the UN agenda through outreach and by working together collaboratively with like-minded countries and different groups depending on Samoa’s positions, priorities and the nature of the issues, the interests at stake and the dynamics at play at any given point in time.
The Permanent Mission also serves concurrently as Samoa’s Embassy to the United States of America and High Commission to Canada respectively given the proximity of the Mission’s location to these capitals.
1. SUMMARY OF FINANCIAL YEAR (FY) 2019/2020 HIGHLIGHTS
i. High Level Political Forum (HLPF), July 2019. The Deputy Prime Minister, Honourable Fiame Naomi Mataafa and Mission staff represented Samoa at the HLPF and attended the sessions on the presentation of voluntary national reviews (VNRs) to support the PIF countries, Fiji, Nauru, New Zealand, Palau, Tonga and Vanuatu who were presenting their VNRs for the first time.
Samoa’s delegation participated as panelists and presented statements in the listed high level and side-events. DPM delivered addresses for the following: ➢ SIDS Session on “Empowering people and ensuring inclusiveness and equality.” ➢ Session 2: on “Towards a more effective development co-operation: practical lessons from stakeholders and country evidence.
33 ➢ ” OHRLLS and UNDESA side event: “3rd annual Global Multi-stakeholder Small Island Developing States Partnership Dialogue.” ➢ PIF side event on “Addressing unbalance and inadequate development to achieve the SDGs.”
*Ambassador and DPR were also panelists for VNR labs and side events: ➢ VNR lab for Vanuatu ➢ VNR Labs: Innovative formats to review national implementations *The Mission Co-hosts side-events: ➢ Don Bosco/ Salesian Mission Inc. /Permanent Observer Mission of the Holy See on Youths, entitled: “Hear our Voices: We the Youth walk our talk: Addressing the Need to Listen to the Voices of Young People for Urgent Climate Action.” ➢ Australia on : SDG 16 in the Pacific: Strengthening and Legitimizing Institutions to Achieve Sustainable Development ➢ UN-OHRLSS high Level side event on: Scaling up Energy Transition in Small Island Developing States: cases of Saint Lucia, Samoa and the Maldives.”
*Samoa also submitted its Spotlight CPD to UN Secretariat.
*The Mission registered Samoa’s interest to present for the second time its National Voluntary Review in July 2020. ii. Samoa represented at High-level week of UN General Assembly 74th session, 24-28 September 2019. The Prime Minister delivered Samoa’s national statement on 27 September 2020 during the Assembly’s general debate focusing on this year’s theme of “Galvanizing multilateral efforts for poverty eradication, quality education, climate action and inclusion.” Included in the statement were the topical issues of climate change, migration, the 2030 development agenda and mid-term review of the SAMOA Pathway, Peacekeeping, the Ocean and our Blue Pacific narrative, BBNJ and the call for the delimitation of maritime boundaries as well as Samoa’s voluntary commitments done at the UN Ocean Conference, the signing of new Treaties and sustainable tourism and its importance in the development of small island developing state’s (SIDS) economies.
Listed below are the High Level Meetings attended in which statements were delivered by the Prime Minister.
➢ Meeting of the Pacific Islands Forum Leaders and the UN Secretary- General. (21 September 2020) ➢ Climate Action Summit Opening (23 September 2020) ➢ Universal Health Coverage (23 September 2020) ➢ High Level Political Forum [SDG Summit], (24 September 2020) ➢ India-Pacific Leaders Meeting (Discussions on India’s Fund to the Pacific and the India-UN Development Partner Fund) (24 September 2020) ➢ High Level meeting to commemorate and promote the “International Day for the Total Elimination of Nuclear Weapons” (26 September 2020)
34 ➢ High Level meeting to review the progress made in addressing the priorities of Small Island Developing States (SIDS) through the implementation of the SIDS Accelerated Modalities of Action (SAMOA Pathway) – Mid-term Review of the SAMOA Pathway.
* Samoa co-moderated with Norway the Multi-stakeholder Roundtable 1: Progress, Gaps and Challenges (27 September 2020)
➢ Guest speaker for the event on “Transforming Island Lives: The Network of Regional sustainable energy centres for SIDS (27 September 2020) ➢ Meeting with the US Secretary of State with Pacific Leaders (made an intervention) (27 September 2020)
Samoa also:
➢ Signed – The “Kwon Gesh” Pledge which was witnessed by Samoan Youth, Miss Francine Elisaia. ➢ There were various side events attended by the Samoa delegation including the CEO MFAT, CEO MNRE, Ambassador Elisaia and Mission staff making interventions and contributions to the discussions iii. BBNJ. ➢ The Mission has been actively participating in the Preparatory Meetings and the Inter-governmental conference (IGC) for the negotiation of an agreement under the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea on the conservation and sustainable use of marine biological diversity of areas beyond national jurisdiction (BBNJ). ➢ The Mission with delegates from MFAT and MNRE participated in the First Inter-governmental conference (IGC) for the negotiation of a legal agreement for BBNJ which was held in September 2018, the Second IGC held in April, 2019 in which the Mission provided national interventions as well as statements on behalf of the PIF. The Mission also attended the preparatory and coordination meetings (retreat held in New York and workshop in the Federated States of Micronesia) for support in the provision of analysis for national position on the thematic issues to assist with the next IGC for text based negotiations in August 2019. iv. Campaign for the candidature of Samoa to be a member of the UN Statistical Commission for 2021-2024.
The Mission was tasked to start a campaign to put forward the nomination of Samoa (CEO, Bureau of Statistics) for a seat on the UN Statistical Commission for elections at May, 2020 however with the COVID19 pandemic the elections of the ECOSOC for its subsidiary bodies were postponed to September 2020 as the elections needed physical appearance for the Member States to cast secret ballot for the contested regional seats. (UN Statistical commission is voted by members of the ECOSOC only and not the full UN membership therefore
35 Regional Group endorsed candidates were encouraged instead of direct submission to ECOSOC).
In the Asia-Pacific Group (APG) there are four (4) candidates put forward vying for the two (2) vacant seats. The four candidates are from China, Japan, Philippines and Samoa. Only the Asia-Pacific Group seats will be voted in a secret ballot during the elections at the next meeting of the Council
The Mission is now engaged in lobbying for support from the 54 members of the ECOSOC Council by holding bilateral meetings with Permanent Representatives and Deputy Permanent Representatives, sending Note Verbale to officially request for reciprocal support agreements (RSA) with countries running in other UN elections who are members of the ECOSOC as well as seeking direct support. The Government Statistician/CEO of Samoa’s Bureau of Statistics is the candidate for the position if we are successfully elected. The Mission’s work is on-going until elections in September, 2020.
Most of the conferences scheduled to be held from March 2020 onwards were all cancelled due to the COVID-19.
v. Briefing for delegations attending the UN Model Conference
The Mission hosted and conducted a briefing for international schools in April that were attending the Model United Nations week:
➢ 30 students from schools in the Latin America and the Caribbean (GRULAC) region.
The Ambassador and staff members presented briefings on Samoa’s policies and stance on specific issues which ranges from Human Rights, Sustainable development, Law and Order, Security, Climate Change, Culture, Indigenous Language/Culture, Oceans as well as the experiences of diplomats from a Small Island Developing State in a multilateral setting and agenda.
This information was to assist the students who will be representing Samoa at the discussion on various issues at UN Model conference for schools at the United Nations. vi. Representation at UN-related meeting outside of New York. The Mission staff were either part of Samoa’s delegations to some UN-related meetings held outside of New York, or represented Government when no representatives came from capital. Conferences where staff were part of the delegations included: ➢ Abu Dhabi Climate Summit, 29 June – 1 July 2019. ➢ COP25, UN Climate Change Conference, 2-13 December 2020, Spain ➢ LDCs and SIDS Trust fund workshop for the Pacific Region, Nadi, Fiji, 19-21 November 2019. ➢ GCF Global Programme Conference, Republic of Korea, 19-23 August, 2019 BBNJ Workshop for PIF, Suva, Fiji, 26 February to 2 March, 2019.
36 ➢ Friendship Group Retreat for Women’s Rights, San Juan, Puerto Rico, 6-9 December 2020. ➢ Visit of UN Permanent Representatives from FOSS (Small States), Singapore, January 2020
vii. Representation at meetings in Washington: ➢ GCF Board meeting, Washington, December 2019 ➢ Pacific Ambassadors, Washington, November 2019.
2. MAJOR ACHIEVEMENTS DURING THE FY 2019/2020 FOR THE MISSION i. Committee Work.
The Mission staff participated in the work of the First, Second, Third, Fourth and Sixth Committees and have followed the work of the Fifth Committee.
The Mission delivered national statements at the opening (general debates) of the First, Second, and Fourth Committees on the issues that are of importance to Samoa.
The Mission attended the voting of the resolutions in all the six Committees as well as in the General Assembly to reflect Samoa’s positions on global issues as guided by previous positions and advice from capital. The agenda for the 74th session and voting on GA resolution is yet to be completed due to COVID-19. The remaining agenda of the 74th session will be completed in the months of July, August and September 2020 before the start of the 75th Session of the UNGA in mid- September, 2020.
ii. Establishment of Diplomatic Relations.
The Permanent Mission was able to facilitate and execute at Ambassadorial level the establishment of diplomatic relations with one (1) country, namely Ghana – signed Communiqué on 20 December, 2019
There are further discussions and domestic procedures needed to be completed before the finalization of Joint Communiques with Saint Lucia, Rwanda and Venezuela.
iii. The Mission joined the (PSIDS) Signing for the continuation (second phase) of the Joint Committee
(Cooperation Programme of the Governments of the PSIDS and the Governments of Italy, Austria, Luxemburg and Spain) on 20 July, 2019.
iv. Submission of PIF’s proposal for Sea Level Rise to the ILC.
The PIF Mission New York Group made a submission to the International Law Commission (ILC) on the topic of Sea Level Rise in relation to International Law. Samoa in this exercise submitted relevant State practices to promote stability of their maritime zones and entitlements, in December 2019.
37 3. Human Resurce Management 3.1 Personnel and Gender Distribution o The FY June 2019 to June 2020 saw the Mission in trying times. During the said period, four (4) mission staff (Second Secretary (Female), First Secretary (Male), Accounts officer (Female) and Ambassador (male)) left the Mission due to completion of tour of duty and resignation due to personal reasons.
o The number of Staff personnel at the Mission as of June 2020 is at 3 staff. The gender make up of staff is 2 Females (Charge d’ Affaires a.i. & First Secretary) and 1 male (driver),
3.2 Staff Training and Developments o The Mission’s First Secretaries attended workshops for BBNJ and ATT as well as UNITAR trainings for ICT.
4. CONSULAR ACTIVITIES The Mission continues to hold bilateral meetings with representatives of the US Government from Washington (US State Department and US Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) in connection with the new US Administration’s policy on deportation of non-US citizens who had either overstayed their permits or had committed deportable offences. The Mission also conducted interviews with the deportees to ascertain pertinent information that was needed by the Samoa government for their decision before approval of deportation and issuance of CI for the list of Samoan nationals provided by the US authorities.
The Mission worked closely with relevant authorities in Apia to ensure there is a cordial working relationship on both sides as has been shown and demonstrated by the cooperative nature this issue had been handled by Washington and Apia to date. The Embassy has established contact persons with ICE personnel for ease of communication and good working relations. Due to the effects of Measles in 2019 and COVID19 in early 2020 on border closure and travel restrictions, the issuance of travel documents (Certificates of Identity) to facilitate the return of the Deportees were put on hold for December 2019 to June 2020 however documents are still being sent to capital for consideration and approval when borders re-open and possible flight repatriation.
During the year under review, the Mission facilitated the issuance from Samoa of the following;
• Total Samoan passports Urgent passports: 5 Non-urgent passports: 7 • Certificates of Identity [including for deportees]: 9 CI issued for emergencies: 0 CI issued for deportees: 9 • Birth certificates - 4 • Death Certificates - 0 • Permits for transportation of deceased Samoan nationals to Samoa – 0 • Research visa – 1
38 • Non resident permit - 2 • Certificate of Citizenship - 1
The above were in addition to the daily inquiries on consular related matters, including occasional requests for requirements for passports, citizenship and the transport to Samoa of deceased nationals (through phone and email).
Register for stranded Samoa citizens/residents: During the COVID19 pandemic period (from March 2020 onwards) the Mission has taken onboard the task to collate and update the register of Samoa citizens/residents who are stranded in the United States and the Americas to be sent to the Ministry and to the Consul-General in Auckland for their names to be on the repatriation flights back to Samoa.
5. FINANCIAL MANAGEMENT 5.1 Achievement of Key Performance Targets for the FY o Overall, the Mission achieved its key performance indicators and was able to do this within its approved envelope for the 2019-20 Financial year
5.2 Assets Management o The Mission “Assets register” was updated and sent to MFAT to reconcile before the departure of Ambassador in February 2020. There are various items that were not in useable form that the Mission requested for write off and were approved.
6. CHALLENGES DURING THE PERIOD The Mission faced many challenges during the period Jul 2019 to Jun 2020 coupled with the effects of COVID19 pandemic and the closure of Samoa and other international borders with resultant travel restrictions.
The Mission given its limited staff and high staff turnover under the period in has had to prioritize matters/issues to follow through UN processes.
In July 2019, the Second Secretary/Consular officer, Mrs. Pierina Katoanga resigned from the Mission to focus on her health and family, this meant the work she was engaged in for the 6th Committee, the work of the International Criminal Court (ICC) and consular work especially deportees were to be shared amongst the Counselor and the two (2) First Secretaries and added upon their own designated work.
The schedule of the 7th UNGA in September 2019 was a very congested and demanding agenda with five (5) high level summits proposed for the high level week for the Leaders thus more attention and work is required of the Mission in the preparation phase during the negotiations of the High Level Political Declarations and Outcomes of the five (5) Summits. The absence of the second secretary also meant other staff members had to take over the work usually done by her such as accreditation of Samoa’s delegation to the HLW of UNGA, requests for port courtesies/clearances and security details and logistics, hotel set up and bilateral meetings as well as spouse’s programme etc.
39
As expected there has been added work for the Mission because Samoa’s link to the SAMOA Pathway and given the mid-term review of the SAMOA Pathway this year the Mission had been invited to participate in UN events in various capacities either as (i) presenters, (ii) panelists, (iii) briefers, or (iv) discussants etc
In February 2020, the Permanent Representative/Ambassador, H.E Ali’ioaiga Feturi Elisaia and Mrs. Maria Elisaia, the Account’s officer (part-time) returned to Samoa upon the completion of their tour of duty after 16 and half years of service in New York. The term for the Counselor/Deputy PR was extended for six (6) months from June to December 2020 to await the arrival of new Head of Mission, Deputy and First Secretary in New York.
On 13 March 2020, the United Nations suspended all in-person meetings, elections and UN related work because of the COVID-19 pandemic and the Mission followed suit in working remotely from home.
Being in New York at the epicenter of the COVID-19 pandemic, one of the foremost challenges was the security threat on the safety of the Mission staff and their families therefore the Mission staff worked remotely from their apartments, observing the lock down and had to adapt to staying indoors for the more than 4 months until the City of New York entered a phased re-opening process.
The United Nations switched all its meetings and Committee work to virtual meetings and the Mission staff had to bring home the files and computers (the need for mics and cameras for virtual meetings) for work. One of the challenges was not having technical assistance for connecting and accessing the different platforms that were sent out for the virtual meetings. There was internet connection problem due to everyone working from home within the Manhattan buildings. The was a need for a printer for the printing and scanning of documents for correspondence between the mission and to the UN Secretariat as well as for the preparation of monthly schedules of accounts for capital.
By the end of March 2020, the First Secretary (Dominic Sofe) resigned from the Mission, 3 months away from the end of his posting in New York to take up work with the United Nations Secretariat. The work involved had to be shifted to the Counselor and First Secretary (Olive).
The proposed renovation of apartment for the incoming Ambassador had to be put on hold due to restrictions for construction work brought about by COVID-19. This would impact greatly on the timing for the arrival of the new Ambassador as well as the shipment of his personal belongings.
When the UN re-opened and had to complete agenda for the 74th session and carry out the postponed elections in person; security challenges remained, taking public transport was out of the question and the driver was not able to resume work in the beginning thus the Mission had to a employ temporary driver when available.
40 SUB OUTPUT 3.5 - SAMOA HIGH COMMISSION – CANBERRA, AUSTRALIA
PROFILE: This office of the Samoa High Commission in Canberra represents Samoa’s interests in Australia. The mission is accredited as High Commission of Samoa to Singapore, Malaysia, Indonesia, Thailand and Timor-Leste. It works largely with the Samoan community in Australia and provides consular and immigration services to Samoans as well as travelers to Samoa.
1. SUMMARY OF THE FINANCIAL YEAR (FY 2019-2020) HIGHLIGHTS i. The financial year started out with the replacement of both office vehicles i.e. BMW to be replaced by a 2019 Toyota Klugger and Holden Captiva to be replaced by a 2019 Toyota Rav4 Edge. Under government policy for replacement of such assets, they had both exceeded the minimum of 5 years and had depreciated in value so much such that the BMW which was bought in 2011 for AUD 160,000, its redeemable value was $14,000. Similarly for the Holden Captiva. Office savings at the end of the financial year plus the redeemable value for the BMW, funded the full cost of these vehicles. Owing to the limitations on our budget, we could not purchase the same replacement model for the BMW, or an AUDI, the value of each exceeded $200,000. We also took into account the limited utilitarian value and use of these luxury models when we used them for visiting officials from our government. ii. The Deputy PM and the Police Commissioner travelled from Samoa to Perth, where they were later joined by the High Commissioner, for the official handover ceremony on 16th August, of our new replacement Police Patrol Boat. iii. On the 6th September the Prime Minister and delegation travelled to Sydney at the invitation of the Australian Prime Minister, to attend the first international rugby match between Manu Samoa and the Australian Wallabies, before both teams travelled to Japan for the Rugby World Cup. Within the margins of the Rugby Trip, there were brief talks between the two Prime Ministers and their delegations on priority areas of our development partnership. iv. While the PM was in Sydney, there was a health incident involving one of the Samoan officials that travelled to Malaysia to attend a workshop. The High Commissioner travelled to Samoa to accompany the official home. v. A Parliamentary Delegation visited Canberra from 14-19th September and it comprised of 12 Members of Parliament. They were in Australia on a study tour which saw Canberra as their final destination before returning to Samoa. The High Commissioner hosted the delegation prior to their return. vi. On 19th September a meeting was called for Heads of Pacific Missions to meet with the Director General of the Forum Fisheries Agency Dr Tupou-Roosen. This was the first meeting at the ANU with the new head of the FFA, which was sponsored by the Australian Pacific Security College.
41 vii. An Australian Federal Police (AFP) briefing was held at the AFP Headquarters for the Pacific Heads of Missions on the Police Law Enforcement Project in the Pacific on 25th September 2019. viii. ON 8th October 2019, the HC was invited to a meeting with the Director of the Australian Pacific Security College, Meg Keen, to discuss the evolving focus of the new college. ix. 25-26 October 2019, the Australian Military hosted the Pacific Military and Police Women’s Rugby Sevens Tournament in Canberra and a team from the Samoan Police Force was represented together with teams from other Pacific Police force. The HC was invited to a reception which was hosted by the Academy for the participants. x. On 7th November, the Fiji Mission hosted a Talanoa Session for all Pacific Missions to discuss issues pertinent to the region and to update everyone on what has been happening in Australia and the region as a whole. xi. The High Commissioner attended a presentation that was given by the Prime Minister of Cook Islands at the Australian National University. The Cook Islands is looking at establishing a mission in Australia. xii. 12th November 2019, a State of Emergency was declared for New South Wales due to the numerous fires that had erupted as a result of very dry and hot weather conditions. xiii. This month also saw the start of the measles epidemic leading to a declaration of a State of Emergency in Samoa and the imposition of travel restrictions for everyone that wanted to travel to Samoa from Australia. xiv. The fires became catastrophic for the whole of Australia especially the Victoria, ACT, NSW, South Australia and Queensland areas. A State of Emergency was declared for ACT due to the very hazardous toxic conditions from the fires impacting on the health of all who live in Canberra and its regional areas. xv. A Prayer Vigil was hosted by the Pacific Missions at the Samoa High Commission for Australia on 17th January 2020. All six Pacific Missions, including New Zealand and Timor Leste were present, and the High Commissioner of Samoa led the vigil with hymns sung by a Tongan community choir. The Australian government was represented by the Office of the Pacific in the Department of Foreign Affairs & Trade (DFAT). xvi. On 20th January 2020, a hailstorm struck the ACT region and some of our assets were damaged i.e. one of our two newly purchased vehicles Rav4 Edge DC9204, part of the roof of the chancery and the residence in Yarralumla, as well as parts of the O’Malley residence (roof leakage and cracked windows). xvii. A claim was put through to the Insurance company NRMA for a replacement of the office vehicle damaged by the hailstorm, and this was successful. A new vehicle was delivered to the Mission later in June. xviii. A Pacific Heads of Missions Meeting was hosted by the Samoa High Commission on 6th Feb to discuss very important trade matters concerning kava, and those pertaining to the SWP. Officials from DFAT and others were invited to brief the group on the updates from the Australian side as well as to answer some of the queries the group presented. The Vice-Consul of Trade Mr Henry Tunupopo traveled from Sydney to attend the meeting and gave a short overview for Samoa.
42 xix. The Corona virus pandemic hits the world hard and travel restrictions for all travelers to Samoa is enforced.
2. MAJOR ACHIEVEMENTS DURING THE FY FOR THE MISSION The major achievements for the Samoa High Commission were: • From office savings from FY 2018-2019, the office was able to replace both office vehicles that were purchased in 2011 (BMW) and 2013 (2013 Holden Captiva. The BMW was replaced by a 2019 Toyota Klugger Wagon while the second vehicle was replaced by a 2019 Toyota Rav4 Edge. Both vehicles were paid off in full and have comprehensive insurance cover. The two old vehicles were traded in to make up the value of the new ones. • In September 2019, the Prime Minister Hon. Tuilaepa Sailele Malielegaoi was officially invited to Australia by the Australian Prime Minister, Hon. Scott Morrison, to witness an international rugby match between the Manu Samoa and the Wallabies before both teams depart for the Rugby World Cup competition hosted by Japan. Within the margins of this invitation, there were official talks held between the two Prime Ministers as well as between senior officials from both countries. The Prime Minister was accompanied by a delegation of 6 which included the CEO MFAT, CEO MPMC and CEO for Samoa Rugby Union. The Prime Minister was also to meet some members of the community whilst in Sydney. Due to a high security risk, there was no official function for the PM and delegation, with the Samoan community. As it was an official invitation, the Government of Australia was responsible for all costs pertaining to this visit. • A Parliamentary Delegation consisting 12 Senior Members of the Samoan Parliament had a layover in Canberra whilst on their 3 weeks study tour of Australia. They were able to spend 5 days in Canberra and the Mission hosted the delegation before their departure. For the majority of the delegation this was the first time they had visited and witnessed the new Samoa High Commission premises and were very impressed with the facilities. The study visit involved a tour of Adelaide and Melbourne before stopping over in Canberra for a visit to the Australian Parliament to meet with their counterparts. • The official handover of the new Police Patrol Boat by the Government of Australia to the Deputy PM, Hon Fiame Naomi, was another milestone attended by the High Commissioner. The Deputy PM was accompanied by the Commissioner of Police to the ceremony which was held in Perth. A small number of the Samoan Community there attended the ceremony too. • In November of 2019, the long drought that had affected some states of Australia, together with the extremely dry and relentless hot summer weather resulted in wild fires erupting over many areas of Australia in particular Queensland, New South Wales, ACT, South Australia and Victoria. They spread quickly and had all of these States declaring States of Emergencies from November until February 2020. Borders were closed between these States due to fires spreading onto roads and properties. It was said to be one of the worst summer fires that Australia had ever experienced resulting in loss of lives, thousands of properties damaged or were burnt to
43 the ground. The fires also impacted extensively on both plant and animal life, threatening the extinction of some species. • Due to these destructive fires, the Heads of Missions for the Pacific Region held a collective Prayer Vigil in January for Australia. Heads of Missions from Tonga, Vanuatu, Solomon Islands, Fiji, Papua New Guinea, Timor Leste and New Zealand came together in prayer with members of DFAT. • On January 20th, ACT was hit by a very brutal hail storm which saw the destruction of a lot of private properties and vehicles. The office’s newly purchased 2019 Toyota Rav4 was damaged with a cracked front windscreen, damaged side mirror and dents all around the body of the car. As it was fully insured we were able to put in a claim for a replacement vehicle which was delivered in late June 2020. The roofing of the Chancery and residence were also heavily impacted in certain areas and we are currently awaiting clearance from the insurance company for repair work. • The monthly meeting for Pacific Heads of Missions was hosted by Samoa Mission on 6th February and senior officials from DFAT were invited to give briefs on Australia’s Pacific Step Up program, security college, SWP, and Trade. • The quick onset of the Corona virus on Australia and the world saw the closure of borders in the region including the main hubs to the Pacific, Australia and New Zealand. This has impacted the health and welfare of people, with greater challenges to recovery from the effect of the pandemic on global, regional and national economies. It also led to the closure of all missions with operations conducted from home. To date, some missions are opened on a restricted basis of two to three days, with a few, especially the bigger missions most notably the US, UK, Canada, China the European missions, New Zealand and others on a more regular basis. All business is being done online with conferences and meetings being held by teleconference, zoom or webcast, although there are group meetings such as our Pacific Group which is one of the smallest, and we take care that the seating and social arrangements are within the social distancing guideline.
3. PLANNED COMMITMENTS NOT ACHIEVED DURING THE FINANCIAL YEAR The work of the Mission was very much routine, except in living and working on our own premises, we had to also concentrate on the continuation of maintenance and upkeep of the new chancery and residence. Apart from the usual consulate work involving the travelling public to Samoa and back, we were hosting visiting dignitaries and attended some community functions and bilateral meetings. The community functions were pretty much restricted in numbers for safety as dictated by the new social distancing requirements. Bilateral meetings with DFAT since the start of the pandemic have been by teleconferencing. We were also meeting with some of our development partners such as the Nordic and Arab countries, and our usual bi- monthly Heads of Missions meetings to discuss regional and international issues of mutual interest.
The combination of the major disasters of the wild fires at the end of 2019, and the pandemic affected the work of the diplomatic community. Usual meetings, functions, celebrations of national events of significance came to a halt, or were conducted with
44 attention to location, numbers permissible and seating arrangements. Most official business was conducted by phone, email, zoom or webcast. For our office, except for Pacific Group meetings which are normally held on a bi-monthly basis, we could not participate at some of our community events, especially celebrations of our Independence, an annual event for our office.
There is also the issue on land rates that is still ongoing with the Australian Government and the Diplomatic Community. This remains unresolved at the moment as negotiations continue.
4. LINKAGES TO ACHIEVEMENTS OF THE SECTOR PLANS/SDS The work of the Mission is guided by our policy regarding our relations with our development partners and the global community. Specific linkage would be through our aid program with Australia and its linkage to the SDS. In this financial year, the onus has been on collaboration with other missions, DFAT and DESE on the Seasonal Workers Program and the PLS as the fires and the pandemic affected the movement of workers, including closure of some of the workplaces affected such as hotels where our PLS workers had been employed. As well, a number of SWP workers had finished their contracts but could not leave, while those recruited in Samoa to replace them could not travel over because of the border restrictions. This had both departments, agencies and employers look at redeploying some of these workers to wait out their repatriation. We also continued to focus on strengthening our relations with the Community by way of information dissemination on government policy and sector priorities associated with specific interests of our community in Australia. These related to agriculture, education, and customary land issues. We have used invitations to community events to disseminate information and have also gone on radio from time to time. These means of communication with the community had proven effective during the measles outbreak in Samoa with the border restrictions enforced on the travelling public, and now with the pandemic.
5. CONSULAR ACTIVITIES The Mission discharged consular activities assisting travel of the general public both for Samoan and Non-Samoan citizens from within Canberra and Australia wide. Our Consulate office in Sydney deals mostly with the traveling public in Sydney, Brisbane, Western Australia and the Northern territories, while we deal mainly with Canberra, Melbourne and sometimes queries from Brisbane. We continue to work closely with border control authorities of Australia in particular with illegal immigrants (the majority are those that have breached visitors’ visa or working visa conditions) and repatriation of those that have breached Australian laws at the completion of their prison terms.
6. HUMAN RESOURCE MANAGEMENT 6.1 Personnel and Gender Distribution There are no changes in staff establishment from the previous year. The mission comprises of the Head of Mission, Deputy High Commissioner, locally employed staff being an administrative assistant, a driver, and a groundsman/part time driver. The part time driver is responsible for the
45 maintenance, cleaning and up keep of the chancery and residence including the grounds, throughout the week. Gender distribution is relatively even with three females and two males
6.2 Human Resource Achievements Given the small size of the office, there is close cooperation to serving the visiting public, consultations and meetings with the diplomatic community, consular duties, workshops on specific areas of diplomatic service, and representation at regional meetings when the Mission is invited to participate.
6.3 Staff Trainings and Development: None is required and none carried out.
7. FINANCIAL MANAGEMENT 7.1 Budget Performance vs Key Performance Indicators
Despite the many challenges that this financial year has encountered and the limited budget allocation, the Mission has achieved all its key performance targets for the financial year. While there has been an increase in utility rates and education fees, the restrictions of activity from the closures of borders from the end of December because of the wild fires, and its continuation to date from the pandemic has meant that we have been able to absorb the costs of these adjustments for the time being.
7.2 Asset Management The Mission retains an asset register which is up to date on all purchased assets and those that have yet to be disposed of, given their condition and non-utilitarian value.
This financial year saw the replacement of one of the newly purchased vehicles under insurance coverage due to the damages incurred from the hailstorm in January 2020. There are also damages on the roofing of the residence and chancery, for which the Mission is awaiting confirmation of repairs to be covered by the insurance company New curtains were installed for the bedrooms of the O’Malley Residence, as these have not been replaced for years and were in a disreputable state.
8. CHALLENGES DURING THIS PERIOD This financial year has seen a number of serious challenges in the latter part of the financial year. While from the start of the financial year we encountered some of the usual challenges of the increasing rates and utility costs against our appropriation, we were able to cope and manage the required payments in a timely manner from savings.
Towards the end of 2019, the Australian Summer fires posed a lot of stress and disruption to the normal office routines. Due to hazardous air pollution experienced in not only in the ACT area but Australia widely, the office was closed on numerous occasions. As well, at one point, the Deputy High Commissioner and her family had to
46 evacuate their residence to stay in a hotel for 3 days as their location was declared unsafe by the authorities because of its proximity to the spreading fires.
Between the summer fires, the hailstorm and the start of the corona virus pandemic, the operation of the Mission has been all but normal. There have been the continuous closures and irregular working hours due to the varying restrictions enforced by the State given the impact of the pandemic and all its complications. There has been a halt on all travel internationally and internally for Australia, and this led to cancellation of official meetings pertaining to the carrying out of what was considered ‘normal business’ for diplomatic heads and staff.
Since the pandemic, both the Consulate and our Mission have been beseeched by nationals and Samoan residents on current border closures and the impact on their travel plans. Many have been able to have visas extended, but these visas will soon need to be extended again. All are keen to travel home. At the date of writing this report, we have approximately around 200 nationals who have contacted us collectively for repatriation.
All these challenges have had dire impact on the economy, resulting in increased prices of most basic goods, especially vegetables and meat but also in some services. Rates for all utilities and services have increased. There have been major disruptions to everyday life, from office hours to education with some schools conducting classes online, to socializing with restrictions on number of people visiting each others’ homes, church, all have been affected tremendously. The climatic conditions that Australia has gone though from a long drought of about 3 years duration to wild fires in just this year alone have all impacted heavily on agriculture, tourism and the services sectors. The fires and pandemic have not only cost Australia lives of its people but properties and great ruination for many. Unemployment is likely to hit 1.3 million by December. Despite all these challenges we have been very fortunate due to the continuous support from our Government, and especially our Ministry, giving us support in the management of our resources so we can stay engaged effectively with our stakeholders, including our Samoan communities.
9. RECOMMENDATIONS TO CABINET In the aftermath of the wild fires and the pandemic, there has been much disruption to normal operations, even down to normal routines of families, including the curtailing or restriction of personal freedom to travel afar, to visit, and even to touch base with communities. All that could be achieved electronically has been done, but there are specific areas of concern, where greater need for personal contact in times like these may be needed.
Of the most vulnerable groups of our Samoan nationals here in Australia, they are our students on scholarship awards, and seasonal workers. Of these two groups, the appointment of a Liaison Officer has assisted in looking out for the welfare of the workers and addressing issues of significance that come up from time to time. It must be noted that the Seasonal Worker Program (SWP) which started later than the New Zealand RSE, and the Pacific Labour Scheme (PLS) which was launched two years ago, have encountered problems from time to time that all entities involved are continuing
47 to address. These schemes have involved both the High Commission and the Consulate from time to time on individual cases, but more recently, greater dialogue with DFAT and the Department of Employment and stakeholders to address issues that affect the operation of these schemes, and in turn, the overall well being of workers, from structural issues to contractual issues, accommodation, insurance, pastoral care, superannuation etc. We continue to look to our Ministries concerned for instruction and direction on these issues.
In the case of students, their welfare is mostly entrusted to the Australian government authorities that manage and operate the scholarship award scheme in consultation with our government. We have a limited role to play except when asked, and even information on who they are, and where these students are placed has been scant, until recently. There is a need to keep an official record of their presence at any time in case of significant events that affect their welfare, and there is a need to contact them. Given the size of Australia and how far these institutions are placed, we need to ensure we can reach them timely. The wildfires is such a devastating occurrence which could have easily affected areas where our students are situated. Similarly, conditions imposed by the COVID virus has seen an exponentially high increase in mental health of people, not only the general population, the most vulnerable being students. In these unprecedented times, and the uncertainty of when things could get back to normal, it may be time to look at how our offices could play a more supportive role .
SUB-OUTPUT 3.6 - OFFICE OF THE STUDENT COUNSELOR – FIJI.
PROFILE: Provision of counseling services to all scholarship students to enhance their academic performance and welfare while on study in Fijian based institutions such as USP and FNU as well as all scholarship students studying Law at Emalus campus in Vanuatu. In addition, reports/advice/feedback are provided to MFAT on issues affecting students’ performance and welfare. 1.SUMMARY OF FINANCIAL YEAR (FY) 2019/2020 HIGHLIGHTS • 2 briefing sessions conducted for new students on 15 January 2020 in Apia and one in Suva on 5 May 2020. The delay in the second meeting was due to the transition of the new Student Counsellor and also the unexpected COVID-19 lockdowns. All Samoan students including new ones were provided with online and email updates and briefings throughout the Semester 1, 2020 and especially during the lockdown. • The term of the Student Counsellor Aida Savea was officially concluded on 10 January 2020. The new Student Counsellor Louis Jalesa Ofele Lene commenced his appointment on 18 January 2020. Due to timing issues, the handover was conducted in Samoa on 17 January 2020. • A total of 117 Samoan students enrolled at USP-Fiji for Semester 1, 2020 with 85 sponsored and 32 private students. There were 15 Samoan students enrolled at FNU for the Semester 1, 2020 with 12 sponsored and 3 private sponsored. 5 of these FNU registered students are doing their medical practical from Samoa. • The office was involved in the repatriation of 109 Samoan citizens and residents, including students on two repatriation flights from Fiji to Samoa (24/03/20 and 25/03/20). A total of 29 USP students (including 3 private sponsored) and 9 FNU
48 students were repatriated to Samoa and have been stranded there since 25 March 2020 due to COVID-19 lockdowns. 5 APTC students from Samoa were also repatriated. • The Academic Year 2020 calendar for both FNU and USP were amended as a result of the COVID-19 lockdown. The USP and FNU were able to resume Semester 1 but limited to online teaching only. • FNU postgraduate medical programmes for regional students were discontinued from 18 April 2020 due to the Fiji Government COVID-19 restrictions. Students were advised to continue their studies from their countries under the supervision of an in- country qualified supervisor or defer to 2021.
2. MAJOR ACHIEVEMENTS DURING THE FY 2019/2020 FOR THE MISSION i. 23 students successfully completed their studies/programmes inside this FY; 21 from USP-Fiji and 2 from FNU-Fiji. Unfortunately, due to the extended 2020 academic calendar as a result of the COVID-19, this report is unable to capture the number of students that were intended to complete their studies in Semester 1, 2020. A total of 9 students were expected to complete their programmes in Semester 1 2020. ii. 1 new sponsored student arrived in July 2019 to commence his studies in Semester 2, 2019 at USP-Fiji and a total of 13 new sponsored students enrolled at USP-Fiji for the 2020 academic year. iii. 3 private students, 23 Samoan sponsored students, 2 NZ sponsored students and 3 Australia sponsored students received academic counseling; 6 Samoan sponsored students were counseled on personal issues. iv. A total of 4 quarterly reports were submitted to MFAT. There reports were submitted in July 2019, December 2019, April 2020 and 1 in June 2020. Due to the extended Semester 1, the 4th report was not able to fully capture the progress of full semester and will be reflected in the first report of FY2020/2021. In addition, there were also at least 10 updates were provided to the STSC on students’ issues especially during the COVID-19 lockdown periods from March - June 2020. v. 5 meetings were held with AusAID representative; 4 with USP HR; 2 with USP Finance; 1 with the Halls Manager; 2 with USP SAS; 1 with the Deputy VC and 4 meetings with the USP Management during the lockdown periods between March - June 2020. Communications with FNU was mainly done via email due to the availability of the institution personnel. vi. One sports day activity was organized by the Office for USP students during this FY.
3. PLANNED COMMITMENTS NOT ACHIEVED DURING THE FY i. Individual assessments on exam results for Semester 1, 2020 ii. Mid-Semester meeting of Semester 1, 2020 with Samoan students at USP-Fiji and FNU. (due to COVID-19 lockdown and restrictions) iii. Survey for the level of students’ satisfactions on Student Counsellor’s services in Semester 1, 2020.
49
4. LINKAGES OF ACHIEVEMENTS TO THE SECTOR PLAN/ SDS
SDS 2016/2017 – 2019/20 Priority Area 2: Social i. Key outcome 6 - strategic outcome 3 relates to an increase in health professionals
ii. Key outcome 7 - Strategic outcomes 1 & 3 relating to people graduating with nationally and internationally recognized qualification and education aligned to national human resource development priorities.
5. HUMAN RESOURCE MANAGEMENT i. Human Resource/ Achievements
The clerical assistant resigned in June 2019 and has yet to be replaced.
The term of the previous Student Counsellor was officially concluded on the 10 January 2020. The replacement commenced his service on 18 January 2020.
ii. Staff Training and Capacity Building
The briefing by MFAT for the newly appointed Student Counsellor was held on 17 January 2020. The briefing focuses on the entitlements of the new SC as per the Guidelines for Diplomatic Missions, and operation of the office in Suva.
The handover briefing between the newly appointed Student Counsellor and the previous one was also held in Apia on 17 January 2020.
6. FINANCIAL MANAGEMENT 6.1 Achievement of Key Performance Targets for the FY 2019/2020 All targets were achieved except for the following:
i) Number of Individual assessments on exam results Only 2 assessments have been completed in July 2019 and December 2019. Due to the disruptions to the 2020 academic year as a result of the COVID-19 lockdowns and extension of the Semester 1, 2020 to July 2020, the assessments for semester 1 exam results have been pushed to the next FY. The mid-semester (Semester 1, 2020) performance review for Government sponsored students was also disrupted by the COVID-19 lockdowns.
ii) Level of students’ satisfactions on Student Counsellor’s services (survey) There were only 51 respondents to the survey conducted in October 2019. 40 were satisfied with SC services, that is around 78%, just short of the 80% target. Due to the disruption to Semester 1, 2020, the next survey will be conducted in Semester 2, 2020 (next FY).
*Because there were no Samoan students at the USP-Vanuatu campus, the assessments and activities were only provided for the USP and FNUstudents in Fiji.
50 6.2 Assets Management Updated asset register submitted to MFAT in December 2019
7. CHALLENGES DURING THE PERIOD
i. A number of assets will need to be replaced or written off. Approval needed for disposal and replacement.
ii. Need a bigger office space especially for keeping of old files. The setup of our Mission in Suva should help address this issue.
iii. Throughout this FY, the clerical assistant position remained vacant. The transition to the new SC and also COVID-19 lockdowns were some of the factors that caused the delay. The position is expected to be filled in the next FY.
iv. Due to the short time of the handover for the new SC which took place in Apia and not in Suva, a number of issues arose such as complications in changing of bank signature for the office account; work permit for the new SC and his family; changing of the vehicle registration; office vehicle insurance; telephone and cell phone registrations.
v. The operation of the office and the execution of some activities in the last 6 months of this FY were greatly disrupted by the COVID-19 lockdowns. The transition of the new SC into the office was especially affected.
vi. The office is still without a Tax Identification Number (TIN) from the Fiji Revenue and Customs Service which is a requirement for every entity. However, the SC Office is currently setup under the USP, and is another complicating factor that is causing the delay. Approval is needed from MFAT in order to pursue a TIN for the office.
vii. Banks in Fiji are no longer accepting cheques for payment of Students allowances. Payments of allowances must be done through Online Banking or distribute in cash. Approval is needed from MFAT and MOF for the office to operate an Online Banking for the distribution of students’ allowances.
SUB-OUTPUT 3.7 - OFFICE OF THE CONSULATE GENERAL OF SAMOA– AMERICAN SAMOA
PROFILE: The Consulate-General was established in March 2006 to cater for the growing number of Samoan Citizens in the Territory and to provide the following services. • Provide consular services to Samoan citizens residing in American Samoa. Over the years, this service was extended to Samoa citizens living in the United States of America mainland and Hawaii who sought assistance from the Consulate’s Office. • The same assistance was extended to US Nationals during and the travelling public during holidays and weekends who may request to travel on emergency status.
51 These include unexpected funeral services, sudden severe illness for family members etc. • Assist with repatriation process for prisoners who had completed official terms and have been ordered by the American Samoa Court to leave the Territory. • Represent Government of Samoa at official functions hosted by American Samoa Government (ASG). • Liaison media or contact personnel between Government of Samoa and American Samoa Government.
1. SUMMARY OF FINANCIAL YEAR (FY) 2019/2020 - HIGHLIGHTS
The total budget for the Consulate Office in the 2019 – 2020 financial year was USD $119,990.00. The total revenue collected during this reporting year was USD $214,178.00 compared to USD $320,433.00.00 collected in FY 2018/2019. This represented a shortfall of USD $106, 255.00. Inevitably the cause for the reduction is due to border restrictions as a result of the Measles and then the COVID19 crises.
Total Revenue comprised: (i) 365 new Adult Passports: @$250 = $91,250.00 (ii) 16 Child Passport@$125 = $ 2,000.00 (iii) 13 Passport Extensions: @ $60.00 = $ 780.00 (iv) 39 Passport Endorsements: @ $60 = $ 2,340.00 (v) 7 Documents of Identity: @$100 = $ 700.00 (vi) 6 DOI Extensions @$60 = $ 360.00 (vii) 7 Citizenship by descent/Exemptions @ $150 = $ 1,050.00 (viii) 8 Authorizations to travel without passport: @$50.00 = $ 400.00 (ix) 4 Certificates of Identity @$200.00 = $ 800.00 (x) 16 Exemptions Transfer: @ $60.00 = $ 960.00 (xi) 34 Birth Certificates: @$20.00 = $ 680.00 (xii) 5 Marriage Certificates @$20.00 = $ 100.00 (xiii) 6 Multiple Entry: @ $150.00 = $ 900.00 (xiv) Entry Permits: a. 3120 (14days) @$20 = $ 62,400.00 b. 452 (30days) @ $40.00 = $ 18,080.00 c. 48 (60days) @$60 = $ 2,880.00 d. 94 (1 Way Transit Permits) @$20.00 = $ 1,880.00 507 (2 Way Transit Permits) @ $40.00 = $ 20,280.00 (xv) Urgency/Service Fees, Miscellaneous and Others: ** = $ 6,338.00 TOTAL $ 214,178.00
**This amount is from the combined sum for $10 urgency fees inclusive of entry permits, $50 for urgent passport applications, Certificate of Identity, Document of Identity. It also includes the $10 urgent fee for authorisations, passport endorsements and, copies for customers, phone calls and service fees for BC/MC requests from mainland, Hawaii and others countries.
1. MAJOR ACHIEVEMENTS DURING THE FY 2019/2020 FOR THE CONSULATE. i. Build and consolidate on existing Consulate’s entry permit regime of 14 days, 30 days, 60 days, single or one-way travel and, two-way transits.
52 ii. Improve and streamline existing process of acquiring Passports and DOIs by mail via air delivery from Headquarters and Immigration Department. iii. Build and enhance on existing interactions with ASG officials, especially the Governor and Lt Governor’s Offices. Improve on interaction with American Samoa Department Directors and general public employees. iv. Maintain land at Tafuna in preparation for new consulate office. v. Build on and maintain increase in revenue collection as reflected in previous annual reporting periods. vi. Had been invited to attend Cabinet Meetings. Had also held meetings with Director of Commerce and Director of PWD and staff in preparation for new consulate. vii. Had been invited to attend several community gatherings
2. PLANNED COMMITMENTS NOT ACHIEVED DURING THE FY Consultations between American Samoa relevant Authorities such as Environmental Protection Agency, Electrical and Power Authority are underway in preparation for the new Consulate. Grass at the property is maintained regularly in anticipation for approval to clear rear half of property
3. LINKAGES OF ACHIEVEMENTS TO THE SECTOR PLAN/ SDS In so far as attaining linkages of Samoa Governments achievements, as well as those of the travelling public, this aspect had been well represented by the achievements to date. It is fair to mention that team work between staff at Head Office MFAT Apia, MPMC, Birth and Death Certificates, married Certificates Ministry had contributed immensely to this milestone. It is our desire that this momentum will be maintained in order to maintain customer satisfaction.
In processing entry permits to enter Samoa American, Samoa travelers enjoys options of either applying for a 14, 30 or 60 days depending on trip duration. Traveler’s usually has the option for same day processing which entails the $10 urgent fee or, pick up the following working day without fee.
Before the Measles and COVID19 border restriction especially during weekends and holidays, AMS travelers from Pago usually travelled to Apia in numbers as reflected in the numbers who had visited the Consulate for permits towards the end of 2019 and the beginning of 2020. This is a positive impact not only for the office at Fagatogo but the two(2) airlines servicing the route between the two Samoas. Over and above this aspect, shops at Faleolo, as well as Taxi services and shops along the main east coast road also shared the same economic benefit from travelers.
The Consulate sometimes process permits for MEDICAID funded patients. These patients depending on their medical status, are airlifted either by Samoa Airways/Talofa Airways from Pago to Fagalii or Faleolo where they continue on to NZ or Australia for treatment. Hence, these facilities not only provide services but they also receive appropriate remuneration for the services provided.
At the end of the day funds from these services eventually translate into tax which help Government fund infrastructural work, health and educational national projects.
53 4. OTHER EVENTS AND OFFICIAL COMMITMENTS ACHIEVED
i. Engage and affiliate with ASG officials in various events. ii. Liaise with Immigration Department on immigration issues with the view of discouraging authorities in Pago from withholding passports for travelling public. This practice often leads to Samoan passports being either misplaced or lost. In fact, AS Attorney General’s Office had issued a memorandum to discourage this practice unless it is absolutely necessary and AGs Office notified within 24 hours about it. iii. Build on liaison duties pertaining to visits to the Territory by Samoa Head of State, Prime Minister, Members of Council of Deputies, Cabinet Ministers and senior Government Officials. iv. Public relations events like attending and hosting of dinner or luncheons for visiting VIPs from Samoa and ASG officials.
5. HUMAN RESOURCE MANAGEMENT
5.1 Human Resource/ Achievements Annual Performance Appraisal reports for two (2) staff members had been presented to Head office early this year. Both staff were awarded double increments in recognition of their high performances.
Three staff members inclusive of the Consul General, is maintained. However, it is recommended that where ever possible an additional staff member is highly recommended. The amount and volume of work over the years is immense and revenue collected testifies for this aspect.
5.2 Staff Trainings and Developments On the job training, self-coaching and knowledge sharing is continuous. Self- development and knowledge is encouraged and ongoing as tool very useful tool.
6. FINANCIAL MANAGEMENT
6.1 Achievement of Key Performance Targets for the FY A noticeable reduction in revenue collection especilally towards the second half half of the the 2019 – 2020 financial year due to border restrictions as a result of the measles and covid19 crises.
6.2 Assets Management A new list of all assets to date is kept, inclusive of old and new assets purchased lately to improve Consular services.
7. Challenges As depicted in the Consul General’s report 2018/19, very few Departments communicate officially in writing with the Consulate. This makes relationship building very challenging as it provides no record of discussions. Nevertheless the Office will continue to see to it that communication between the office and the American Samoan bureaucracy will be improved and strengthened.
54 In the early months of 2020 one of our staff members had fallen very ill and had been hospitalized and was later sent to Samoa for further treatment.
SUB-OUTPUT 3.8 – EMBASSY OF SAMOA– TOKYO, JAPAN
PROFILE: The Embassy of Samoa in Tokyo, Japan is charged with representing, advocating and promoting Samoa's interests and friendly relations with Japan and with countries it is concurrently accredited to, which are the Russian Federation, the Philippines, the United Arab Emirates(UAE), India and with the International Renewable Energy Agency (IRENA) in UAE. This involves the conduct of official business with government leaders and officials, with business communities and non-government stakeholders as appropriate on key bilateral and multilateral issues; seeking and assessing viable opportunities for trade, economic, tourism, cultural, educational and sports relations; and representational duties at diplomatic events and official engagements.
As well, the Embassy provides consular services to Samoan students and nationals living or travelling through Japan and to provide information to those visiting Samoa for business or tourism. The Embassy works closely with the Samoan community in Japan for cultural and tourism promotion through cultural performances when needed. The Embassy is staffed with the Ambassador/Head of Mission, one Counselor seconded from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade and assisted by three locally engaged staff (driver, secretary and interpreter/assistant).
1. SUMMARY OF FINANCIAL YEAR 2019/2020 HIGHLIGHTS
1.1 Diplomatic Representation The Embassy continued its consistent high-level and effective diplomatic representations in Japan and in other accredited jurisdictions. The arrival of the coronavirus pandemic (COVID-19) in Japan in January 2020 had a profound impact on the physical work environment of the Embassy as it relates to public gatherings, face to face meetings and travel (domestic and international).
In the period July 2019-January 2020 before COVID-19, the Head of Mission/Ambassador and Counsellor engaged in several meetings and events with the Prime Minister of Japan, Cabinet Ministers, States Ministers, senior officials of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Japan (Japan-MOFA), JICA, JETRO, Pacific Island Country Office (PIC Office) and other government agencies, as well as with representatives of the private sector businesses and organizations to nurture and consolidate relationships critical to achieving the goals and mandate of the Embassy. Priority is given to cooperative engagement with MOFA and JICA to discuss bilateral relations, technical cooperation and development projects for Samoa.
The Ambassador continued courtesy calls on Hon. Yoshihiro Mori, former Prime Minister and President of the Tokyo Olympic Games; Hon. Toshiaki Endo, Chairman of the Japan- Samoa Parliamentary Friendship Association and Hon. Furuya Chairman of the Japan- Pacific Parliamentary Friendship Association and other key Diet members for the maintenance of good relations with such influential points of contact.
The Ambassador and Spouse attended all events and functions at the Imperial Palace as invited by Their Majesties the Emperor and Empress of Japan, including the ceremonial
55 events for the Emperor's enthronement in October 2019. The Ambassador participated effectively in all meetings and engagements of the Women Ambassadors Group during the period.
At the invitation of Her Imperial Highness Princess Norihito Takamado, the Ambassador attended and made a floral arrangement in Samoa colours using free style ikebana, at the World Orchid Show in February 2020, an international annual exhibition held in Tokyo that draws over 30,000 people every year.
The Embassy hosted and attended a number of official/diplomatic functions and meetings which are critical for networking, in renewing work relations and developing new ones with the various levels of the Japanese government and Diet, members of the 160 Diplomatic Corps in Tokyo, and with prefectural and city leaders, educational institutions and NGOs. Attending and hosting official/diplomatic functions are very important in the Japanese business culture and the Samoa Embassy remained fully engaged in these activities.
The Ambassador and Counsellor undertook official visits to several prefectures and had meetings with governors, mayors and their respective officials to establish or strengthen Embassy-prefectural relations and discuss exchange programs in sports, culture and employment opportunities.
A number of high-level, strategic visits from Samoa to Japan in 2019 were significant illustrations to the Government and the people of Japan of the high degree to which Samoa holds its bilateral relationship with Japan. These high-level visits continued on from the successful first ever State Visit of Hon. Prime Minister Tuilaepa Lupesoliai Sailele Malielegaoi to Japan in May 2018, undertaken back-to-back with his participation and chairmanship of the PALM 8 Summit between Japan and the Pacific Forum countries. These high-level visits were:
(i) The Minister of Finance Hon. Sili Epa Tuioti and CEO MOF visited Japan on 21-27 July 2019 on an invitation facilitated by the Association for the Promotion of International Cooperation, under its Pacific Island Leader Invitation program. The delegation met with the State Minister of Finance, Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs, JICA President, senior officials of the Tax Ministry and Customs and a site visit to Japan Coast Guard for security related discussions.
(ii) The Hon. Prime Minister undertook an official visit from 1-6 October 2019 during which he had a summit with the Prime Minister of Japan discussing technical cooperation between Japan and Samoa. Prime Minister Tuilaepa also had meetings with the Chairman (Hon. Toshiaki Endo) and Diet members of the Japan-Samoa Parliamentary Friendship Association, and attended as guest of honour, the Japan vs Samoa match of the Rugby World Cup on 5 October 2019. While in Toyota City, the Prime Minister also had brief meetings with former Prime Minister Hon Mori, Governor and Mayor of Toyota city who came to meet with Prime Minister and to watch the match. The Hon. Prime Minister was accompanied by Mrs. Gillian Malielegaoi, MFAT CEO and ACEO.
(iii) On his second visit to Japan in November 2019, the Hon. Prime Minister attended meetings of the World Rugby Board that were held in Tokyo in his capacity as Board Member. As well, the Prime Minister met with the Chairman of the World Rugby and senior
56 officials regarding support for rugby and sports development in Samoa. Hon. Prime Minister was accompanied by CEO MPMC and CEO SRU.
(iv) Samoa’s Head of State, His Highness Tuimaleali’ifano Va’aletoa Sualauvi II and Her Highness Masiofo Fa’amausili Leinafo Tuimaleali’ifano were invited official guests to the enthronement ceremony of His Majesty Emperor Naruhito of Japan. They joined over 2,000 guests that included over 400 royal dignitaries and Heads of State and Government from 180 countries. During their visit from 20-24 October 2019, their Highnesses also attended the Imperial State Banquet hosted by Their Majesties, the state dinner hosted by Prime Minister Abe, the traditional Imperial Tea Ceremony for the 18 attending royal heads of delegation, hosted by Their Majesties. They also attended a luncheon hosted by the Japan-Pacific Parliamentary Association whereat His Highness delivered remarks, being the highest-ranking Pacific representative in the enthronement celebration. Their Highnesses were accompanied by his private secretary and ADC.
(v) The Member of the Council of Deputies, Hon. Le Mamea Ropati arrived in Japan on 28 September 2019 with a four-party delegation for a private visit in relation to the Rugby World Cup.
For the preparations of programs for meetings, transportation and hospitality for the delegations whilst in Japan, the Embassy worked closely with Japan-MOFA, the Imperial Household Agency, Office of the Prime Minister of Japan, central and regional Police, transport and restaurant companies, Iwaki and Toyota cities, Samoan community in Japan, World Rugby organizing committee, Japan Rugby Football Union, Samoa Rugby Union, and with Samoa-MFAT and Samoa-MPMC. The domestic costs for the visits such as transportation and hospitality engagements were borne by the Embassy from its FY budget provision and the rest from its accrued savings in preparation of these official events that would occur in the second half of 2019.
Ambassador Faalavaau travelled to United Arab Emirates in November 2019 for meetings with government officials and attended the 8th session of the IRENA Council in her capacity as the Chairman of the Program and Strategy Committee of the IRENA Council. The Ambassador also attended with Deputy Prime Minister of Samoa Hon. Fiame Naomi Mata’afa the 10th Assembly of IRENA in January 2020 in the UAE. Samoa was elected Vice- President of the Assembly and facilitator of a ministerial plenary and the Deputy Prime Minister carried out these roles with excellence.
The Ambassador visited New Delhi, India in December 2019 to cultivate networking and work relationships with the Indian government bureaucracy and to follow up on India’s technical cooperation and bilateral relations with Samoa.
1.2 Promoting Samoa as a Tourist Destination, Trading Partner & Investment Haven
The promotion of Samoa as a tourist destination and as a trustworthy investment haven for business and trade continued as one of the Embassy’s priority areas and the Embassy invested much effort and resources in this regard. To maximize on cost and opportunity to reach more people, the Embassy incorporated trade promotional activities in its exchange and awareness programs at schools, communities and prefectures. Working closely with private businesses and capitalizing on partnerships and advising on Samoan products and
57 trade contributed to generating higher interest by Japanese companies in Samoan products and in Samoa in general.
The Embassy collaborated with Samoa’s Honorary Consul in Japan Mr. Naomi Inoue and his wife Yorie Inoue, and his company Joban Kosan in facilitating the importation and the trading of Samoan products (handicrafts and apparel) in Japan. The Embassy will continue this work with the Honorary Consul, whose contribution has been invaluable, including searching for small to medium sized enterprises that can and desire to establish branches in Samoa.
1.3 Promoting people-to-people and exchange programs
The promotion of people-to-people and exchange programs is a significant part of the Embassy’s work in the maintenance of Samoa’s bilateral relations with Japan especially at the prefectural, local level. Nurturing warm contacts and creating partnerships with prefectures through regular official visits and meetings with Governors and Mayors are vital in driving and in the delivery of people-to-people exchange initiatives in culture, sports, and academic/student exchange programs. During this period, the Ambassador visited seven prefectures.
Full funded scholarships programs for training and tertiary study in Japan continued such as the Pacific Leaders Educational Assistance for Development of States (Pacific LEADS), Sakura Science Plan, MEXT and others, which were sent through and facilitated by MFAT for interested nationals to apply. The Embassy was in regular contact with the programs’ implementing agencies.
1.4 2019 Rugby World Cup and the Tokyo 2020 Olympic and Paralympic Games
Significant work and regional visits were undertaken by the Embassy during this period to collaborate with its partners (companies and local governments) that had pledged support to Samoa and its national team’s road to the Rugby World Cup. The focus was on securing sponsorships and the successful implementation of arrangements for the arrival of the Manu Samoa to Japan and the execution of cultural and sports exchange programs at Iwaki city, Samoa's host town for the team's training before the start of the tournament.
In addition to regular visits to these host towns, the Ambassador visited all four match host cities and met with their Governors and Mayors for promotion of Samoa and was informed of their respective hospitality arrangements for the Manu Samoa when they arrive for their pool games.
In parallel, the Embassy continued to follow up on support and arrangements with host cities Iwaki and Yamagata that will host Samoa’s delegation for the Tokyo Olympic Games 2020.
2. MAJOR ACHIEVEMENTS DURING THE FY 2019/2020 FOR THE MISSION
2.1 Diplomatic Representation
(i) The Ambassador attended an invitation by Her Imperial Highness Princess Norihito Takamado to participate in the annual World Orchid Show in February 2020 and to exhibit a floral arrangement for Samoa. The Ambassador made a large orchid arrangement using a fusion of Samoa's national colours of blue, red and white orchids in a Japanese free style
58 ikebana, illustrating the friendly Samoan-Japanese relationship. More than 30,000 people visit this exhibition that is held once a year in Tokyo.
(ii) The Embassy coordinated with relevant ministries and agencies in Japan and in Samoa and executed successfully the comprehensive programs of meetings, logistics and hospitality for the five above-mentioned high-level visits from Samoa in 2019.
(iii) The Embassy was able to meet from this FY budget provision and from savings all the costs of transportation and hospitality required for the visits.
(iv) During Hon. Prime Minister Tuilaepa's official visit on 1-6 October 2019, a number of milestones are notable:
• Exchange of Notes signed between the Japan State Minister of Foreign Affairs Mr. Kenji Wakamiya and Ambassador Faalavaau for the provision of a new inter-island vessel for Samoa under Japan's grant aid program. The new vessel costs 2.5billion yen or US$23.5million and aimed to replace MV Lady Naomi. • Key issues highlighted in the Summit between the two Prime Ministers to discuss technical cooperation and strengthen bilateral relations were climate change, climate resilient infrastructure, water, connectivity, security, transportation and renewable energy. • Prime Minister Tuilaepa met with Hon. Endo, the Chairman as well as Parliamentary members of the Japan-Samoa Parliamentary Friendship Association and invited them to visit Samoa in 2020 or 2021. Hon. Endo subsequently advised that he and a few members accept the Prime Minister's invitation and will visit Samoa on 10-12 December 2020.
(v) During the official visit of His Highness the Head of State and Masiofo for the enthronement celebrations, His Highness delivered remarks at the official luncheon hosted by the Japan-Pacific Parliamentary Friendship League in the presence of other Heads of State and Governments from the Pacific
(vi) During Ambassador Faalavaa'us visit to New Delhi on 9-12 December 2019:
• Discussed with senior government officials India’s Grant-In-Aid assistance, capacity building programs, and arrangements for the 3rd Forum for India-Pacific Island Cooperation (FIPIC) scheduled for mid-2020. • Samoa signed the Framework Agreement of the International Solar Alliance on 10 December. The Alliance is a compendium of like-minded countries that collaborate to promote renewable energy transition. • Two Indian nationals were interviewed for the role of Honorary Consul of Samoa in New Delhi. The nomination of one suitable candidate has since been submitted to the Indian Foreign Ministry for consideration.
(vii) With respect work with the International Renewable Energy Agency (IRENA) in Abu Dhabi:
• At the 18th meeting of the IRENA Council in November 2019, Samoa was elected Chairman of the Program and Strategic Committee of the IRENA Council for the period 2019-2021. Ambassador Faalavaau chaired meetings of the Committee ahead of the Council meeting and provided oral and written report to the Council.
59 • At the 10th Assembly of IRENA in January 2020, Samoa was elected one of the five Vice-Presidents of the 10th Assembly 10th representing the Asia-Pacific region. Deputy Prime Minister Hon. Fiame Naomi Mata'afa presided a plenary session, chaired the ministerial thematic session on national implementation on renewable energy transition and delivered the country statement. • In these elections to the Vice-Presidency of the Assembly and the Chairman of the Program and Strategy Committee, this is the first time a Pacific member or a small island developing State has held these positions in the organization. • These efforts are in line with our government's position to effectively promote Samoa and its profile as a serious, strategic leader in intergovernmental arenas.
2.2 Promoting Samoa as a Tourist Destination, Trading Partner & Investment Haven
(i) Exports in clothing and handicrafts to Japan from Samoan companies like Eveni and Pacific Jewell through Joban Kosan, the company headed by our Honorary Consul Mr. Inoue, increased in 2019.
(ii) The Spa Resort Hawaiians Hotel in Iwaki City and its incredibly popular Polynesian- themed cultural entertainment is heavily infused with Samoan siva and ailao, providing a generous (and free to Embassy) promotion of Samoa to its visitors.
(iii) Other local businesses namely Bartleys and Rimanis exported handicrafts and materials for clothes/uniforms and for sale at the Narita international airport and at the Spa Resort Hawaiians hotel in Iwaki.
(iii) Nonu juice from Samoa Nonu company, imported through Pacific International company in Tokyo, increased as Pacific International branched into South Korea with Samoan nonu juice.
2.3 Promoting people-to-people and international exchange programs
(i) Iwaki City dispatched its second group of city officials and students for a cultural familiarization visit to Samoa in August 2019. The Iwaki delegation enjoyed home stays and cultural exchanges with Avele College organized by MFAT, and met senior government and Samoa Rugby Union officials, and were hosted to a dinner reception with the Hon. Prime Minister. All the costs of the visit to Samoa were met by Iwaki City as provided in the framework agreement for cultural exchanges between Samoa and Iwaki.
(ii) The Embassy pursued a similar program with Yamagata City and after two years of negotiation, the first sports exchange program between Samoa and Yamagata took place on 19 August-2 September 2019. Four Samoan judo athletes were invited by the city to visit and stay in Yamagata for two weeks. The athletes trained alongside Japanese judo athletes and trainers, extensively visited the prefecture, exhibited Samoan siva, and attended the World Judo Champs in Tokyo where one Samoan judo athlete was competing. All the costs for international travel from Samoa, domestic transportation, accommodation and attending the World Judo Champs were paid by Yamagata city.
60 (iii) The Embassy liaised regularly with the various Japanese government ministries and agencies that provide scholarships and training opportunities for Samoa. In 2019, one Samoan national successfully attained a scholarship under the Pacific LEADS for studies in Japan for the next two to three years. There are 8 students studying under the MEXT scholarship program. Five science students from different colleges in Samoa visited Japan in August 2019 for the annual Sakura Science Program that invites college students from Samoa to undertake familiarization visits to colleges and companies in Japan for 10 days. The Sakura Science program for 2020 however was cancelled because of travel restrictions and safety precautions due to the global spread of the coronavirus
2.4. RWC 2019 and the Tokyo 2020 Olympic and Paralympic Games
(i) The Embassy executed successfully programs it organized with Samoa’s host cities namely Iwaki and Yamagata, for the arrival and stay of the Manu Samoa to prepare for the Rugby World Cup, cultural exchange programs, meeting the local communities and school visits.
(ii) As per the agreement signed by Hon. Prime Minister, Mayor of Iwaki City and Ambassador Faalavaau in 2017, Iwaki city bore all the costs of domestic transportation, gyms and training equipment, sports fields, accommodation and meals for the Manu Samoa contingent during their five day stay in September 2019. Iwaki City also hosted a welcome reception for the Manu Samoa on their arrival into the city.
(iii) Ambassador Faalavaau secured a significant financial sponsorship from a law firm in Tokyo, Morrison & Foerster, to assist the Samoa Rugby Union’s preparations for the Rugby World Cup. The law firm in addition hosted a welcome reception for the Manu Samoa’s arrival into Japan. The Sapporo Breweries company provided water and other drinks.
(iv) The Embassy coordinated a visit and meetings for the Samoa Chef de Mission, Ms Nynette Sass on 26-29 August 2019 with host cities of Iwaki and Yamagata to view facilities and to discuss arrangements and requirements for hosting the Samoan athletes' training ahead of the Tokyo Olympic Games 2020.
2.5 Outreach Program
(i) The Ambassador and Counsellor delivered many seminars and presentations to local community organizations, universities and schools in various prefectures during July – December 2019 on various topics such as bilateral relations with Japan, rugby and other sports in Samoa, tourism, culture, gender, democratic and parliamentary system in Samoa, and others. The Ambassador had many interviews in the same period as well. The Counsellor kept in regular touch with schools and consulted and attended Samoa- themed school lunch programs as part of awareness promotion of Samoa, customs and traditions.
(ii) Since the Rugby World Cup 2019, several schools reached out to the Embassy to register their interest to know more about Samoa and many visited the Embassy.
(iii) The Ambassador was invited to deliver a seminar lecture to students of the Higashi Nippon International University on 12 July 2019 and met with the Chairman of the Board
61 of the University and faculty deans to discuss possible future initiatives and exchanges including with the National University of Samoa.
(v) The Embassy revamped its official website. This became an important tool to disseminate important accurate information as received from our Government on the elements of the state of emergency in Samoa for the information of Samoans living in Japan especially the stranded students and their respective universities..
3. PLANNED COMMITMENTS NOT ACHIEVED DURING THE FINANCIAL YEAR
(i) The Ambassador’s proposed travel to Philippines to follow up on technical cooperation opportunities was put on hold because of heavy commitments at post in deference to preparations for high level visits from Samoa to Japan; ongoing preparations with Samoa’s host cities for the Rugby World Cup and the Tokyo 2020 Olympic Games; and especially the unexpected onset of the coronavirus pandemic, a force majeure that resulted in global travel restrictions and other hardships.
(ii) Plans to establish new honorary consulates in Kumamoto and Fukuoka prefectures did not take place as obtaining the necessary approvals took longer than usual. This work will be pursued in the new financial year. Honorary Consuls are important partners and advisors for the Embassy at the prefectural level in the Embassy’s pursuit for business, trade and employment opportunities for Samoa given their local knowledge and political and financial connections with the local governments and businesses. The two Honorary posts are established and work at no cost to Samoa and held by prominent Japanese nationals working together with the Samoa Embassy in Tokyo.
(iii) The Office relocation was still in exploratory stage until confirmed indicative funds become available to enable credible discussions with potential landlords. The onset of the COVID pandemic and the resultant lockdown and restrictions in Tokyo from February 2020 brought the search literally to a standstill in order to avoid the risk of infection for Embassy staff and real estate agents. It is planned for this matter to be relooked at in late 2020 when the Tokyo pandemic environment is more manageable.
(iv) The visit of the Deputy Prime Minister of Samoa planned for April 2020 did not eventuate due to COVID and the resultant border closures and Cabinet's decision against travel for government officials for health and safety.
(v) The Japanese government-imposed restrictions against people movement and assembly, and avoiding the risk of infection for Embassy staff caused many of the Embassy’s planned physical activities and initiatives for February-June 2020 to be cancelled. These were the scheduled meetings to be held at the Embassy, the regular meetings with Japanese government officials, Parliament members and other key supporters of Samoa, attending receptions and hosting lunch and dinner meetings and the follow up visits and meetings with the host cities of Iwaki, Yamagata and Fukuoka to finalize preparations for Samoa’s Olympic athletes. Meetings were later moved to virtual setting using Zoom, Microsoft Teams and Webinar, while inter-state movements were still in lockdown by the end of this FY.
(vi) The Council and Committee meetings of the IRENA in May 2020 did not take place as a result of to border and travel closures between Japan and UAE due to the COVID, as well as uncertainty of the staff on how to progress work in the midst of the pandemic that country as well.
62 4. LINKAGES OF ACHIEVEMENTS TO THE SECTOR PLAN/SDS
The Embassy’s achievements and work to efficiently and effectively advocate for Samoa and its interests in Japan and in other areas of jurisdiction are linked to and resonate with the SDS, national budget statement, the SAMOA Pathway, the Sustainable Development Goals and the PALM Declaration. For in the conduct of the Embassy’s work, the vision, goals and targets are income generation through increased exports from Samoa; sports development and opportunities for overseas employment; implementation of national energy and climate change targets through renewable energy transition; follow through of development assistance in quality infrastructure and waste management projects; capacity building, training and human resource development in general; promoting closer cooperation and sustainable partnership between Samoa and Japan including through sports diplomacy, cultural and sports exchange programs that is inclusive of regional and community levels.
5. OTHER EVENTS AND OFFICIAL COMMITMENTS ACHIEVED
(i) The Ambassador and Counsellor participated effectively in the Japan-Pacific Senior Officials Meeting of PALM and the France-Pacific Senior Officials Meeting held in Tokyo from 3-4 February 2020.
(ii) The Ambassadors Group of the seven Pacific Island Embassies in Japan meet often to discuss and share on important and relevant issues and events that occur in Japan. The chairmanship rotates every two years. In December 2019, the Ambassadors group nominated Samoa to be the chairman, taking over from Fiji who held this role from 2018-2019. It is Palau's turn however Palau turned it down. The Embassy started in this chairmanship role from January 2020, and following are some important work done so far between January-June 2020:
• Coordinated and chaired PIC Ambassadors Group meetings to: ▪ Discuss agenda and issues for the Senior Officials Meeting between Japan and the Pacific that was held on 3 February 2020; ▪ Discuss agenda and issues for the Senior Officials Meeting between France and the Pacific that was held on 4 February 2020; ▪ To avoid physical contact as a precaution against the spread of covid, the Embassy prepared and chaired meetings for March and June 2020 online using the Embassy's Zoom and Microsoft Teams accounts. • Co-coordinated with JICA the convening of the PIC Ambassadors Group and the President of JICA to be held in August 2020 to discuss Japan's technical cooperation with the Pacific.
6. CONSULAR ACTIVITES/ SERVICES
The Embassy received a courtesy visit in September 2019 by Samoa’s Honorary Consul in Philippines Mr. James Donovan whilst in Japan for a business trip. He provided a briefing on the operations of that honorary consulate vis-à-vis support for Samoan nationals living in the Philippines and was advised to explore economic opportunities between Philippines and Samoa.
63 The Embassy continued to provide information to local Samoan nationals living in Japan enquiring about passports, birth certificates, marriage documents and facilitated procurement of such in consultation with MFAT and MPMC. The Embassy, when requested, translates such documents to Japanese and vice-versa. The Embassy also provided general information to potential travelers from Japan to Samoa.
The outbreak of the coronavirus pandemic in Japan resulted in increased enquiries to the Embassy during the period February-June 2020 mostly from Samoan students and trainees in Japan (five) and in the Philippines (one) who have completed their studies but unable to return to Samoa because of border closures in Samoa and transit countries Australia, New Zealand and Fiji. The Embassy kept in regular contact with them through telephone calls, emails and through the Embassy website to update them on the pandemic situation, the Japanese government health and safety guidelines and to visit them to ensure their safety and wellbeing while awaiting our government’s efforts regarding their repatriation.
The Embassy also reached out to MOFA of Japan and sponsoring universities for the continuation of financial and accommodation support for each student and trainee until such a time they could return to Samoa
7. HUMAN RESOURCE MANAGEMENT
7.1 Human Resource/Achievements The Embassy is well-balanced with 2 female and 3 staff members (inclusive of posted staff).
7.2 Staff Training and Capacity building
The Embassy utilizes well its budget provision for Japanese language training for its two posted staff and subscriptions to appropriate reading material (newspapers and bulletins) for continued capacity building/learning and familiarity with current, topical issues in Japan and Asian neighbouring countries whose policies affect Japan’s conduct of its foreign policy.
8. FINANCIAL MANAGEMENT
8.1 Achievement of Key Performance Targets for the FY The sound and strategic financial management and forward planning in the preparation of budget estimates enabled the Embassy to achieve its key performance targets in this FY as well as other forecasted, significant events in Japan for which a budget allocation was not provided, specifically in the first half of the FY. The Embassy’s work is influenced and impacted by factors such as global and local events in Japan and the opportunities they entail, the implementation of the PALM 8 Summit outcomes, the results of consistent and effective engagement and the nurturing and consolidation of relationships with the Japanese government officials, prefectural and local communities.
The onset however of the coronavirus pandemic in Japan in February 2020 and the curtailment of activities that involves physical meetings and domestic and international travel resulted in the Embassy not being able to achieve all of its targets in the February- June 2020 period. The Embassy's mid-year review for the period July-December 2019
64 would show the Embassy performing well above its key performance targets for the period before the coronavirus.
8.2 Assets Management
The Embassy maintained and updated when required, its assets registers. All the assets of the Embassy were properly maintained within existing budget levels to ensure staff productivity and to avoid unnecessary extended repair costs. Any written-off items due to age, wear and tear, were disposed of in line with the MFAT and Treasury instructions.
9, CHALLENGES DURING THE PERIOD
The Embassy’s physical operating environment changed dramatically from February 2020 when the coronavirus pandemic began to spread widely in Japan. By 13 February, Japan registered its first COVID-19 fatality. The different stages of restrictions and lockdown in Japan ensued. Prime Minister Abe declared a State of Emergency on 4 April while urging schools, offices and public places to close, people to stay indoors, to work from home/telework and to go out for essentials only (hospitals and grocery). The state of emergency was lifted on 26 May but many restrictions remained in force regarding group gatherings, closure of public places inter-prefectural travels, and people urged to work from home, as measures to order to curb the spread of the virus.
The Embassy’s physical opening hours, like all other embassies and public offices in Tokyo, were slightly shortened to allow staff taking public transport to avoid the rush hours in the morning and the evening, and meetings with other Embassies and government offices, moved to virtual settings. It was discovered that the Embassy’s computers require upgrading with suitable microphones and cameras and faster internet capability in order to be able to perform its functions in this ‘new normal’ of doing business ahead of acquiring a vaccine for the coronavirus that has affected the entire world.
SUB-OUTPUT : 3.9 EMBASSY OF SAMOA IN CHINA (BEIJING)
MISSION PROFILE: The Embassy of Samoa in Beijing is responsible for representing Samoa’s interests to the People’s Republic of China. It looks after Samoan citizens working, studying or visiting China. An ongoing key objective of the mission is the promotion of Samoa’s profile throughout China, whenever possible and subject to available resources. This is crucial to the Embassy’s work in promoting trade, investment and tourism in China given the size of China, the language barrier and a very large population of over 1.3billion people.
SUMMARY OF FINANCIAL YEAR (FY) July 2019/ June 2020
Mission Budget:
The total approved budget for the mission for the financial year 2019- 2020 was Y3,542,776 (US518,000) an increase of Y70,000 from the 2019-2020 budget of Y3,472,679 (US501,689).
The bulk of the increase in the budget was to cater mainly for increases in insurance costs (health/rent) over the previous year.
65 Given insufficient resources to cater for the mission's work with respect to trade investment and tourism promotion in the country, the mission managed to improvise and relied on partial funding from the host country for visits and exhibitions outside Beijing. Costs associated with overseas meetings which the Head of Mission was required to attend in Samoa such as the China Pacific Economic Forum in Samoa in October and the Shanghai Import Expo in November also required funding from the mission’s budget. Relocation costs for the departure of the First Secretary and family to Samoa in January 2020 upon completion of term in Beijing was also an added cost to the mission, which covered airfares, sea freight costs for belongings, and 14 days quarantine costs in Auckland.
Mission Staff: The Mission’s First Secretary Ms Dorothy Meredith and family departed Beijing in January 2020 for Samoa just before the lockdown due to the corona-virus outbreak. The lockdown and suspension of flights to and from China since February also meant that a replacement for her from Samoa could not take effect as planned. The Mission in the absence of the First Secretary the mission continued to be staffed by the Ambassador, the Minister- counselor, 3 local staff plus a part time cleaner. Out of the 170 Missions Heads in the diplomatic Corp in Beijing, the Ambassador is the 3 rd senior in terms of years of service in Beijing.
Events Highlights: The coronavirus was first discovered in Wuhan China in D e c e m b e r 2019, and then spread to other parts of the world.
On March 11 the Covid 19 was declared by the WHO as a pandemic, a serious health threat to the world community. The mission like all diplomatic missions in China have been in lockdown mode from January to August 2020 with very limited activities and movement to other cities and overseas constrained by strict travel and health restrictions. One of the main involvements of the mission which took up considerable time was to appeal to partners in China for medical supplies (PPE) and equipment to send to Samoa. This also required coordination with those partners and friends as well as the Chinese government for the dispatch of the supplies to Samoa for COVID19 given the competition by many countries for the same supplies from China. The government of Tahiti was able to organize a humanitarian flight to China to uplift medical supplies for Tahiti and the Pacific from China. Strict Covid l9 restrictions in Samoa and customs rules in China made the effort difficult. In May some of these supplies arrived in the Pacific. Other medical supplies from China were provided through the UN and the Forum Secretariat.
1. Ministerial Visits and Meetings 2. China's assistance (Grant Aid Projects) 3. Exhibitions and High Level Meetings 2019-20 4. Scholarships/ Trainings/Seminars to China 5. Facilitating trade investment tourism promotion
The most important highlights for the year in China's political and social calendar
66 which the mission participated in were the Beijing Horticulture Expo, the 70th Anniversary of the Founding of the Peoples Republic, and the China Import Expo in Shanghai. All these took place in the latter half of 2019. The mission also participated in the 3 rdChina Pacific Economic Forum in Samoa in October 2019, which was attended by Vice Premier Hu Chunhua and the annual Tourism Fair in Kunming China in November 2019.
Two significant events occurred in September 2019 when the Solomon Islands and Kiribati switched sides and established diplomatic relations with China bringing to 10 the number of Pacific Island countries with diplomatic relations with China and 4 remaining with Taiwan (Nauru, Tuvalu, Marshalls and Palau).
Ministerial & High Level/Senior Officials Visits to China Three Ministers visited China during the 2019/ 2020 1.FY. Hon Lautafi Purcell, Minister of Commerce, attended the 3 rd China Import Expo in Shanghai in November 2019. Minister Lautafi was accompanied by two senior officials from MFAT and MCIL.
2.Hon Sala Fata Pinati, Minister of Tourism the annual Tourism Fair CITM in Kunming in November 2019. Minister Sala was accompanied by the STA CEO and two STA Board members.
3. The Minister of Justice also attended a meeting in Guangzhou in October.
Projects under Grant Aid Meetings with the Ministry of Commerce and the agencies which oversee and coordinate Chinas grant assistance for Samoa for briefings and follow up on proposals submitted to MOFCOM through the Chinese Embassy in Apia. During the year in review, meetings were held with CIDCA the main ODA coordinating agency and AIECO the implementation arm of CIDCA. The major challenge has been the delay in submitting complete project proposals and delays on the Samoa side due to changes in plans such as the Police Academy Project which was due to begin in May 2019 but multiple delays on the Samoa side including the coronavirus lockdown meant the project could not start before the end of the 2019-20 financial year.
The feasibility study for the other major project, the Vaiusu Port, which started in September 2017, was completed during the year and still awaiting further advice from the Chinese side pending the end of COVID19.
The designs for the other grant projects, the 3 primary schools, St Teresa, Lepea and Apia Primary Schools have also been delayed due to the COVID lockdown and flight restrictions to Samoa.
No new projects were submitted to the Chinese side for consideration under grant assistance during the period as well as the China Pacific concessional loan scheme. The last project under concessional loan was the new Faleolo Airport Terminal which was officially opened in May 2018.
67 Huizhou Sister City Projects Samoa has two sister cities in the southern province of Guangdong, the top province in terms of GDP. These are the high tech capital of China, Shenzhen and Huizhou. Under the Belt and Road, Huizhou is the designated city for Samoa for cooperation. Currently Huizhou is doing two projects in Samoa, the China Samoa Friendship Park, and the Culture Center. Covid 19 during most of 2020 have delayed the completion of the two projects which were expected to be completed in the middle of 2020. The mayor of Huizhou visited Apia during the China Pacific Economic Forum.
Beijing Horticulture Expo In Beijing International Horticulture Expo opened in May 2019 to October 2019 covering 4 months of the FY period. The International Expo with the theme, Green Living, invited over 120 countries including Pacific Island countries to set up horticulture pavilions and related exhibits at the venue. China funded a Pacific Pavilion at the Expo site which was managed by Pacific missions in Beijing. Minister of Commerce Hon. Lautafi was invited but withdrew in the last minute due to work commitments.
3rd China International Import Expo The largest trade investment Exhibition in China took place in the first week of November 2019, attended by Commerce Minister Lautafi, Ambassador, and two senior officials from Samoa MFAT and MCIL. Unlike the previous year, only PNG, Fiji, and Vanuatu were invited to set up booths with the understanding that other Pacific countries including Samoa would have their turns in 2020, given the intention to invite more companies to participate and less national governments. The Minister took the opportunity to meet briefly with China’s Vice Minister of Commerce during the Expo.
3rd Pacific-China Economic Forum, Apia Following an offer by Samoa during the 2nd China Pacific Economic Forum in Guangzhou in 2013, China agreed to hold the 3rd Forum which was held in Apia in late October 2019 co- hosted by Samoa and China. Vice Premier of China Hu Chunhua led a high level delegation to Samoa which included 8 Vice Ministers, government officials and over 200 private sector and business representatives from China. Heads of Government and Ministers/officials from Pacific countries attended the Forum including Solomon Is and Kiribati to discuss future areas of cooperation between Pacific Island countries and China. The meeting also adopted a Plan of Action for future cooperation and areas for attention during the Forum. Representatives of sister cities for Pacific Island countries in Guangdong province also attended and were part of the bilateral discussions between China and the respective island countries. Eight development cooperation agreements between China and Samoa were signed during the Forum.
Scholarships and Training Seminars in China The intake for Samoan scholarship students for the Academic year 2019-2020 in China saw the number of students decrease from 26 in the previous year to 22 for the year in review.
The Mission serves as the main point of contact for Samoan students in China. It
68 communicates directly with Chinese Scholarship Council (CSC), Chinas Ministry of Education and Chinese Universities on scholarship matters and other issues affecting the students' studies in China. Other main responsibilities:
❖ Disburse students Government supplementary allowance in September for new students only; ❖ Visit Universities where Samoan students study and liaises with CSC and students on academic performance reports and related issues; ❖ Assist with other requests from the MFAT and PSC including travel for students to Samoa for family matters (compassionate travel).
Trainings:Seminars/Exhibitions
Every year, the Chinese government sponsors government and private sector representatives from Samoa (and other Pacific Is countries with relations with China) to participate in training seminars in China. This includes familiarization tours and seminars for MPs.
For the year, 158 representatives from Samoa travelled to China during the year, for meetings, training seminars/exhibitions which included 3 cabinet ministers, (MCIL, Tourism and Justice) and one MP.
The majority of participants were government officials from government ministries. Training in agriculture, food safety, horticulture, flower cultivation, energy, governance, law enforcement, climate change, refrigeration, and tourism management. For this year the number of trainings and trainees has declined from the previous year due to COVID 19.
Trade Investment & Tourism Promotion Samoa’s main export to China is Nonu Juice. The Zero Tariff scheme between Samoa and China which started in 2010 and exempted nonu and other Samoa products from duty, ended in February 2017 after Samoa graduated from UN Least Developed Country Status.
From 2017, nonu juice was subject to 22 % duty and 17% tax leading to decline in exports of nonu juice from Samoa especially given competition from other Asian countries who are also producers of nonu. Since then, duty has been reduced to 5%.
The Belt and Road Initiative (announced in 2013) is one of the most significant and far reaching plan that China has ever put forward which the Chinese government believes will increase interconnectivity and improve cooperation among countries along the route to Asia and Europe which also includes the South Pacific region. The plan emphasizes economic development through trade transport connectivity, land and sea.
Trade and tourism promotions for Samoa took place during the 6 months Beijing Horticulture Expo, The China Import Expo and the CITM Tourism Fair. In addition an exhibition of Samoan export products was done at the venue during the China Pacific Economic Forum.
69 The Embassy also co-hosted with the Samoa Chamber of Commerce and the Pacific Forum Trade Office in China a Samoa China Trade Tourism Seminar in October 2019 prior to the China Pacific Economic forum for participants from Samoa which was well attended.
Pacific Islands Ambassadors Group (PIAG) - Fiji, FSM, PNG, Samoa, Tonga & Vanuatu Samoa is one of the 6 members of the Pacific Islands Ambassadors Group (PIAG) in Beijing. The group meets at least once every three months. The meetings discuss issues of common interest and concern to members. The Samoan Ambassador is currently the Dean of Pacific Islands Ambassadors. New member Solomon Islands is expected to join in early 2021.
OTHER MEETINGS AND EVENTS Listed are some of the main functions or events hosted/supported by the Mission in China during the FY2019/2020 period: l. Work luncheon for Pacific Island Ambassadors Group (PIAG) during Samoa's chairmanship 2. Lunch for Samoan students
Other regular meetings/events the Mission attends during the course of the year: l . Functions hosted by the Chinese Government (National Day/ New Years) 2. Functions hosted by foreign diplomatic missions (National Day receptions/Bilateral relations commemorations) 3. Functions hosted by Chinese companies/associations (Cultural events/tours) 4. Meetings with Chinese companies/investors
CONSULAR ACTIVITIES The Mission deals with consular enquiries from Chinese and other foreigners seeking information on travel to Samoa for tourism and business purposes. The number of enquiries for the year however has decreased due to Covid 19 and the availability of information on line. The mission does not issue visas as Samoa has a visa free period of up to 90 days stay.
REPUBLIC OF KOREA The Samoa Embassy in Beijing is also accredited to the Republic of Korea. Over 20 Ambassadors in Beijing are also accredited to the Republic of Korea.
The only meeting held in Korea during the year in review was the Korea Pacific Senior Officials Meeting (SOM) in October 2019 which was attended by First Secretary Dorothy Meredith as the Ambassador was away in Samoa for the China Pacific Economic Forum.
The meeting focused mainly on the usual sustainable development, climate change issues in the region where Korea is helping out especially with assistance to regional organizations such as FFA for fisheries surveillance and SPREP for climate change.
The meeting also agreed to strengthen Pacific Islands sustainable development/climate
70 change efforts through support from the Green Climate Fund (GCF) whose Secretariat is based in Seoul.
Korean Peninsula There have been no major breakthrough or positive developments in the Korea Peninsula since the April 2018 summit between the Presidents of the two Koreas and the June 2018 summit between President Kim and US President Trump in Singapore which helped to de escalating tensions and hostilities between the two sides.
Sports The Ambassador has attended the IRB Hong Kong Rugby Sevens Tournament over the years to support Samoa's participation at this world famous tournament, but for this year the tournament was cancelled due to Covid 19.
SUB-OUTPUT: 3.10 - OFFICE OF THE CONSULATE GENERAL OF SAMOA IN SYDNEY, AUSTRALIA
PROFILE: The Consulate General's Office was opened in October 2012 to provide consular and immigration services to Samoan living in Australia and in particular New South Wales and for those travelling to Samoa. In addition, another part of the role of the Consulate is to administer Samoa’s foreign and trade relations with Australia. This is carried out to date, and even more crucial now with the setup of the Vice Consul -Trade portfolio where the need to communicate with Australian officials and counterpart is growing.
The Mission’s footprint expanded quickly to incorporate and support the mission of Samoa Tourism Authority in 2015, the addition of the Trade and Investment Post in 2017, Samoa Airways services and Ministry of Commerce, Industry and Labour in 2019. These additional work and service areas combine within the Mission to form Samoa Incorporated (Samoa Inc).
1. SUMMARY OF FINANCIAL YEAR (FY) 2019/2020 HIGHLIGHTS
Auseugaefa Vaasatia Poloma Komiti started in October 2018 as Consul General (CG). He promptly set about establishing networks with Consular Corps, Heads and representatives of States, Local government authorities, and relevant DFAT contacts. Ongoing regular contact with Federal and State officials assisted well in pursuing the Consulates mandate in the delivery of our services to our clientele. Active participation in official functions and seminars provided insights into the Governments global views. The CG actively supports the MCIL Liaison Officer (LO) through engaging in virtual meetings and site visits to SWP farms and thus bringing credibility and helping to restore and build employer’s confidence in Samoa’s supply side arrangements. The CG cultivates networks with Samoan communities and representatives of Advisory Councils in the various States.
The LO’s role with labour mobility has significantly enhanced Samoa government’s responsiveness to issues arising under the SWP and PLS and provides a focal point for employers and workers alike.
71 The Consulate has been able to assist the public by providing information and guidance on the requirements for adoptions, weddings, divorces, repatriation of a deceased to Samoa; directing queries to STA about tours and group travel to Samoa, as well as providing information on foreign investment legislation.
We continue to update our in-house databases for businesses that stock Made in Samoa/Samoan products. The Consulate completed all its key performance indicators.
2. MAJOR ACHIEVEMENTS DURING THE FY 2019/2020 FOR THE MISSION
High level visits: The Prime Minister visited Sydney on the occasion of an invitation from Prime Minister Morrison of Australia which coincided with the Manu Samoa vs Wallabies test in the lead up to the 2019 Rugby World Cup. While in Australia, the PM had several engagements including with Cyber-security agencies and the Australian Police Academy. The PM also received briefings on Samoa’s SWP and PLS workers. The preparations included airport courtesies, security arrangement and ground transportation needs in tandem with AFP and DFAT.
Scholarship students: The Consulate hosted a welcome luncheon for Samoan students on Australian Awards in NSW. This allowed students to meet the Consul General and staff along with constituent agencies of the Government of Samoa Incorporated in Australia namely STA and Samoa Airways. It was also an opportunity for Samoa Inc to meet them, and to extend an offer of support should they need it while studying in Australia.
At the beginning of COVID19, the Consulate was also responsible for sending out information to the students and providing advice on where and how to get assistance during the lockdown periods. Students also communicated to the Office when help was needed with visas, course guidance and other matters relating to accommodation and repatriation.
Trade Work: Visit to the SWP seasonal workers based in Mildura regarding pastoral care issues in some of the farms. The Consul General led trip allowed for not only meetings with the workers, but also and more importantly meetings with farm owners and Approved Employers in the Mildura region.
Worked in collaboration with Samoa Tourism Authority to plan and execute the first ever Tourism & Trade Community Event to end the STA Annual Samoa Tourism Roadshow around Australia. Along with representatives from Samoa hotels & tourism sector, various Pacific businesses selling Samoan exported products and manufacturers of value-added products using ingredients from Samoa were set up in a Community market style setting to promote their businesses as well as Made in Samoa products. The event was fully funded by STA.
The Trade Consul attended the PLMAM Annual meeting in Auckland to provide Samoa’s delegation with an Australian context of the Labour Mobility schemes advising on both the benefits and the key challenges for the workers.
72 The Vice-Consul (Trade) attended the Pacific Heads of Missions monthly briefing in Canberra to give an update on PACER Plus matters, Labour Mobility issues (both SWP and PLS) and provide update on Kava pilot project effective in October 2019 (increasing personal consignment from 2kg to 4kg per person). The opportunity was used to call in to various agencies including DFAT, Department of Education, Skills and Employment, the Pacific Labour Mobility team and the Department of Agriculture to discuss issues of interest to Samoan businesses.
The first quarter of 2020 visit occurred on the back of the HOMs meeting to the businesses in the ACT selling Made in Samoa products as well as promoting products from Samoa currently in NSW and other states. Introduced and connected Living Koko to a Sydney stockiest during the Tourism & Trade Community event in NSW. Living Koko at the time was only operating out of Melbourne. Assisting Ola Pacifica, a New Zealand based chocolate company owned by a Samoan using Samoan cacao beans find a stockiest in Australia. Provided help with distributing samples of the Swiss Made chocolate range around Sydney. Made introductions to various Australian based buyers (NSW and ACT) for: • Heavenly Waters siamu popo; • Turmeric balms by Mailelani; and provided market information for • Sky Eye in both Australia and New Zealand.
Strengthening networks and relationships: In the period covered by this report, the Consul General attended over 30 official Consular & Diplomatic functions in and around NSW.
Marked efficiency gains in the processing of travel documents: An increased number of enquiries and applications were able to be processed and decided at the Consulate without the need to refer such to Apia.
Facilitation of travel of Samoan citizens to other countries: In this reporting year, the Consulate assisted with facilitating visa enquiries and processing for our citizens through the respective Consulates in Sydney and Embassies/High Commissions in Canberra.
Establishment of MCIL Office: July of 2019 saw the official commencement of MCIL operations through the Liaison Officer out of the Consulate office.
Additional Staff for Samoa Airways Office: Samoa Airways hired three additional staff in the Financial Year period.
3. PLANNED COMMITMENTS NOT ACHIEVED DURING THE FY
Trade work: Elements of the Vice Consul Trade’s work program for the FY in review was not achievable because no budget was allocated for it. Except for activities funded by partner organizations such as Pacific Trade & Invest Australia and Samoa Tourism Authority, the rest of the activities such as support for Samoan businesses for market exploration and others could not be achieved.
73 4. LINKAGES OF ACHIEVEMENTS TO THE SECTOR PLAN/ SDS
The work of the Consulate is linked to the overall planning of government through its SDS framework and is achieved through Priority Area 1: (Economic) under Key Outcome 2: (Agriculture and Fisheries Productivity Increased), Outcome 3: (Increased Export products). This has been achieved through the facilitation of export consignments of products like coconut that face delays at the Australian border. The office has had to liaise on a number of occasions with the Department of Water Resources to clarify delays and push for clearance to avoid added and unnecessary costs to both the exporter, and their importer in Australia. Other areas of assistance include continuous engagement with relevant Australian Departments on the access of fresh taro back into Australia, and improvement of quantities of kava consignments allowed into the country.
The Tourism Development under Outcome 4 is achieved also through the ongoing promotional activities of Samoa Tourism Authority housed in the Consulate.
5. OTHER EVENTS AND OFFICIAL COMMITMENTS ACHIEVED 5.1 Personnel and Gender Distribution – The Consulate had eleven personnel as at 30th June 2020. These are the Consul General, Vice Consul Trade, Vice Consul Tourism, Accounts/Administration Officer, Receptionist/Driver, Part Time Accountant for STA, Samoa Airways Regional Manager, Business Development Manager and two support staff, and the MCIL Liaison Officer.
5.2 Staff Training and Development - Internal staff training – The new Consul General brings with him a wealth of experience especially in immigration / consular matters and Governance. He has shared these extensively with staff.
6. CONSULAR ACTIVITES (if necessary)
6.1 Budget Performance versus Key Performance Indicators
Number of Official CGs attended 30 official/diplomatic Completed Diplomatic Functions 20-25 30-50 functions/virtual meetings for the / Achieved attended period July 2019 to June 2020
Number of Speaking CGs attended at least 40 Completed Engagements with Samoan 20-25 40-60 community events for the period / Achieved Communities July 2019 to June 2020.
The Consulate facilitated 1 visit
during the period July 2019 to
June 2020. Prime Minister and Number of visits facilitated Completed 100 30-50 delegation. The number of visits for Samoa Government / Achieved dignitaries facilitated for dignitaries needs to be amended - DFAT policy for
Tahirep oCrotn csouularte sriecse aiccveodr 45de d only Number of Passports Completed 100 20-30 pato ssHpeaodrt o appf Stlaictaet /i oHneas fdo or ft he processed / Achieved peGorvioedrn Jmuleny 2019t (P Mto) .J une 2020
74
Number of Birth Completed The Consulate received 16 BCs, 4 100- 20-30 MCs, 91 Driver License Letters, and 5 Certificates/Police Reports / Achieved obtained from Samoa 150 Police reports and for the period July 2019 to June 2020
The Consulate received 31 Number of passport Completed 100- 10-30 Applications for waive letters for waivers issued 150 / Achieved passports below 6 months and one- w a y tickets and 7 CIs for the Number of trade/tourism Tourism enquiries are estimated at Completed period July enquiries (including RSE 70-80 30-50 160-200 and / Achieved 2019 to June 2020 project) Trade at 80-120 for the period July 2019 to June Enquiries for government ministries Number of enquiries 2020 - is dealt with on a case by case basis. processed on behalf of Completed 50-60 10-30 Common issues are on adoption, other government / Achieved ministries business licenses, duties, GST and investment.
Number of Foreign Completed The Consulate received and 300- 300- Passport Endorsement of / Achieved processed 570 applications for Exemption processed 500 500 the period July 2019 to June 2020 2020
The number of visits facilitated for dignitaries need to be amended - current DFAT policy for airport courtesies accorded only to Head of State / Head of Government (PM).
Enquiries for government ministries - is dealt with on a case by case basis. Common issues are on adoption, business licenses, duties, GST and investment.
6.2 Eftpos Machine – was finally procured for the Consulate and has proven to be significantly helpful for our clients especially the elderly. It has also reduced the need for cash handling
7. FINANCIAL MANAGEMENT
7.1 Achievement of Key Performance Targets for the FY ACTUALS BUDGET SURPLUS / (DEFICIT) FY2019/2020 FY2019/2020 FY2019/2020 $AUD $AUD $AUD
DD
TOTAL $473,871 $425,095 ($48,776)
The Consulate achieved all of its key performance indicators as mentioned above, but had a deficit balance of A$48,776 for the FY ended 30 June 2020.
75 The deficit (over expenditure) was due to under provision for Fixed Costs such as rent, medical insurance and personnel costs.
The approved increase in posted staff COLA, representation and clothing allowance and locally engaged staff salaries was not provided in the Budget.
Except for COLA, Representation Allowance and Special Clothing allowance, there were no other budgetary provisions for the Vice Consul for: medical insurance, air fares, and DSA.
7.2 Assets Management/Registration The Consulate maintains an up-to-date Assets Register for both the Office and the rental residences. The Consulate acquired new assets to the value of A$26,792. These were mainly the Office’s second vehicle $26,593 and Office Printers $3,000.
8 CHALLENGES DURING THE PERIOD Inadequate budget provision compromised the achievement of KPI’s for the Post.
There has been very limited resourcing for the Trade post in the FY reported since the incumbent VC took up office. The Post funded a number of the VC’s visits (travel and DSA) while MCIL and DFAT funded the balance. Trade mission costs were mainly covered by PTIA with some input from MFAT budget: and utilization of MCIL office and Post vehicles.
Communication and coordination between Samoa Government Ministries and the Post needs to improve, particularly where issues arise between those Ministries and their Australian counterparts.
Major bush fires disrupted normal working arrangements for the Consulate causing the office to be closed to the public intermittently and some members of staff to work from home for health and safety reasons. Bush fires were close enough to cause concern and thick lingering smoke but did not threaten the metropolitan area where the Consulate is located. Due to restrictions in technological platforms that Samoa Airways used and that were not readily portable, Samoa Airways staff continued to work at the office. Unfortunately, in an unfortunate coincidence of timing, the office air conditioning broke down and the working environment for Samoa Airways was subpar for several weeks despite the Consulate’s incessant urgings to the Building owners to fix the problem.
During office shut down officers worked from home to respond to critical matters and public notices were posted to inform our public about how to contact us for critical matters. Good communication technology enabled business continuity and the ability of staff to report to the CG on their work and theirs and their families wellbeing. The new office vehicle enabled ease of moving back and forth from the office for staff who were dealing with urgent matters.
COVID19 restrictions commenced in NSW in March 2020. The office responded in compliance with restrictions introduced and to keep staff and their families safe. The Liverpool region where the office is located has always been on the radar for Covid19 clusters and is especially so for the current outbreaks and cases. Again, the office has closed intermittently particularly with renewed outbreaks close to home. Business continuity has again not been affected and
76 clients with urgent matters have been able to be serviced. Staff and their families have all remained safe and office health and safety processes including hand sanitation and social distancing have continued to comply with requirements and good employer practices.
9. RECOMMENDATION 10.1 Increase Budget Allocation - Increase budget to:
1. Fully cover fixed costs for office and residential rents and medical insurance for posted staff 2. Fully cover new approved rates for posted and locally engaged staff 3. Provide adequate operating budget for the Vice Consul Trade.
OUTPUT 4: BILATERAL RELATIONS DIVISION PROFILE: • To manage and coordinate the conduct of Samoa’s bilateral relations and policy dialogues with key bilateral and development partners including resident missions on development and technical cooperation programmes to enhance national economic and social development efforts • To administer and manage long and short term study and training opportunities in an impartial and transparent manner • To ensure that the bilateral relations are reflected in bilateral development cooperation frameworks with partners and sector plans/programs
1. SUMMARY OF FINANCIAL YEAR (FY) 2019/2020) HIGHLIGHTS • Bilateral Policy dialogue forums on development assistance and technical cooperation programmes in line with Samoa’s SDS and national development objectives • Signing of Exchange of notes / Exchange of Letters and MOUs for bilateral Agreements between GOS and key development partners for nationally implemented projects funded by Japan, China, NZ, Australia, India and other bilateral partners ➢ Signing of Economic & Technical Cooperation agreements between Samoa and China on grant aid and development assistance programmes to support national development projects in the area of sports, health, agriculture, education and infrastructure. ➢ Signing of Economic & Social Development Assistance Agreements between Samoa and Japan on grant aid for development assistance programs to support national development projects in the area of education, health and infrastructure. • Promoting People to People Links and Exchange Programs • Administration and management of Long term Scholarship Awards • High Level / Ministerial visits & Meetings • Aid Coordination Committee Meetings • Transfer of Short term training functions to HRD , PSC
2. MAJOR ACHIEVEMENTS DURING THE FY 2019- 2020
Bilateral Policy Dialogues on Development Cooperation assistance programmes
77 • Bilateral policy dialogues with Australia and New Zealand on key areas of development and reaffirm commitment by development partners to Samoa’s SDS and HRD priority needs. ➢ Australia-Samoa Aid Partnership Arrangement 2016-2019 ➢ Samoa-Australia Bilateral Talks November 2019 ➢ NZ-Samoa Bilateral Talks, 20th March 2020, to discuss on possible NZ assistance in response to the current pandemic (COVID-19). ➢ Roundtable meeting with UN and WHO and relevant Ministries to discuss the process and application for COVID-19 financing April 2020. ➢ Donor Coordination meeting including all resident development partners namely Japan, NZ, Australia DFAT, UN Agencies, ADB, US Embassy, People’s Republic of China and World Bank. May 2020
Round table meetings with donor partners for donor support and assistance for Measles outbreak and COVID 19 pandemic (Medical teams, supplies & equipment etc ➢ Japan – Samoa 2019 Policy Dialogue
The Policy Dialogue was held on 02 August 2019 and facilitated by Samoa MFAT. The policy dialogues are convened annually to discuss Japan’s development assistance / policy including updates on recently completed/ ongoing/ pipeline projects as well as potential areas for cooperation between the two countries. Areas suggested by Japan for assistance:
• Facilitate Exchange of Notes / Letters, Agreements & MOUs for bilateral agreements between GOS and bilateral partners for national projects/ technical cooperation programmes funded by China, Japan, India and other development partners.
➢ China o Minutes of discussions with the China International Development Cooperation Agency (CIDCA). 28 July 2019. o Meeting with Dr Liu and the Ministry of Agriculture and Fisheries to discuss lessons learnt from the 4th Phase of the China-Samoa Agricultural Technical Aid Project (SCATAP). 24 July 2019. o Minutes of discussions with the Guangdong Delegation. 03 August 2019. o Exchange of Letters for provision of teaching and scientific research equipment for the School of Maritime and Marine Environment Research Centre of the National University of Samoa. Signed by CEO MFAT, Peseta Noumea Simi and Mr Zhou Liujin, Vice Chairman of CIDCA on 28th July 2019. o Exchange of Letters to undertake feasibility for the Construction of the Vaiusu Port and dredging of the Asau Port. Signed by CEO MFAT, Peseta Noumea Simi and Mr Zhou Liujin, Vice Chairman of CIDCA on 28th July 2019. o Agreement on Economic and Technical Cooperation signed by CEO MFAT, Peseta Noumea Simi and Mr Zhou Liujin, Vice Chairman of CIDCA on the 21st October 2019. o MOU on Electronic Commerce Cooperation. 21st October 2019.
78 o EoN for the 3x Primary Schools (ST Theresa, Apia Primary and Lepea Primary School. 21st October 2019. o Protocol on Inspection, Quarantine and Veterinary Sanitary Requirements for Wild Marine Fishing Aquatic Products. 21st October 2019. o MOU on Agricultural Cooperation. 21st October 2019. o MOU on Strengthening Cooperation in Infrastructure Sectors. 21 October 2019. o MOU on Strengthening Investment and Production Capacity Cooperation. 21 October 2019. o MOU on Training Course on Creative Handicraft Sewing Technology. 21st October 2019. o Video conference with China’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the 10 Pacific Island countries who have bilateral ties with China on COVID19 and China’s responses to the outbreak. March, 2020. o EoN for SCATAP Phase 5. Signed by Hon Prime Minister, Tuilaepa Lupesailele Malielegaoi and H.E Chao Xiaoling, Chinese Ambassador on 05th May 2020.
➢ INDIA
o Framework Agreement on the establishment of the International Solar Alliance (ISA) signed on the 12th December 2019
➢ JAPAN
o Reconstruction of Itu o Asau EoN for the Replacement vessel for Lady Naomi (2.5 billion yen/ USD$32.8 million) – (Grant aid/ Economic & Social Economic Programme). 02 October 2019 in Tokyo, Japan. o Grant Project Contract for Providing Medical Equipment for Strengthening Countermeasure for Measles and Other Infectious Diseases signed on the 24th March 2020 by H.E Genichi Terasawa & Hon Faimalotoa Kika Stowers (MOH). o Technical Cooperation Project Agreement - Diffusion and Development of Cultivation Technology of Orchidaceae Plant in Samoa signed on the 25th March 2020. o Exchange of Notes for the procurement of Medical Equipment for the Health Sector (150 million JPY – approximately 1.38 USD million), signed on the 11th June 2020 by the Hon PM and H.E. Genichi Terasawa. o Technical Cooperation Project Capacity Enhancement Project for Samoa Water Authority in Cooperation with Okinawa PHASE 2 approved on 03rd April 2020. o Project Proposals submitted in August 2019 for consideration by Japan for the FY2020: ▪ NUS Student Learning and Resource Centre including equipment & furnishings (Grant Aid) ▪ EPC - Renewable Energy Development Project/Geothermal Study (Technical Cooperation)
79 ▪ SWA Capacity Enhancement Project in Management and Reduction of Non-Revenue-Water in Samoa (includes international experts, equipment & capacity building) ▪ EPC Alaoa Multipurpose Dam Project for flood retention & for water supply (Co-financing with ALTA – Upgrading of the East Coast Road (including vulnerability study and public consultations) o Grant Aid (GGP) – ▪ Reconstruction of Papa Sataua Primary School (2019) The opening ceremony for the new school building was held on 5 September 2019. The Grant provided for the project works: USD$89, 224 ▪ College (2019) for Itu o Asau College was held on 6 September 2019. Project grant: USD$105, 777/ approx. SAT$263,651.55 ▪ Reconstruction of Safotulafai Primary School (2019) – Ongoing Grant of USD$100,386/ approx. SAT$263,000 was signed on 10 September 2019 for the construction of the school’s new building with 8 classrooms, staff room and a library. ▪ Reconstruction of Fagalii Primary School (2019) – Ongoing Grant contract (SAT$252,000) was signed on 18 September 2019. Project works include the construction of a new school building with 8 classrooms, library and a staff room. ▪ Reconstruction of Afega Primary School (2019) – Ongoing Grant contract (SAT$266,000) was signed on 23 September 2019 to fund the project works. ▪ Reconstruction of Safotu Primary School, Savaii (2019) – Ongoing Grant contract (USD$105, 019/ approx. SAT273, 000) was signed on 24 September 2019 for the school project
➢ Australia
o The completion of the Maliolio Bridge in April 2020 funded by DFAT in partnership with the World Bank and Government of Samoa as part of Australia’s broader support to restore key road sector assets and enhance the climate resilience of critical infrastructure in Samoa.
➢ New Zealand
o Nurse Training Facility ▪ NZ announced in November 2019 assistance towards a new Nurse Training Facility to be built in Samoa. The cost of the project is estimated at around WST$3.48 million to be entirely funded by the NZ government. No progress in implementation
➢ Republic of Korea
o Official Development Assistance 2020, approved by the Government of Korea, for Goshen Mental Trust – refurbishment of HQ and vehicle to provide mobile services (just under USD$200,000)
80 ➢ WHO
o Agreement between the Government of Samoa and the World Health Association (WHO) Collaborative Program 2020 – 2021, signed and endorsed by MFAT Samoa. • Aid Coordination Meetings o Update on High Level Talks o Update on Project Implementation by sector o Pipeline projects
• High level /Ministerial visits and Meetings Consultations are continuously held with visiting high level dignitaries from development partners Samoa has bilateral relations with. The objective of such visits revolve around strengthening the bilateral ties and enhancing cooperation. Discussions revolve around the current status of the partners’ development aid program to Samoa with a focus on priority initiatives including person to person exchanges for capacity building and other initiatives that contribute to meeting Samoa’s development objectives and aspirations.
o Visit by Mr James Gilling, First Secretary of DFAT’s Pacific Bilateral Division to discuss Australia’s Aid Investment plan for Samoa. November 2019 o NZ’s PM, Hon Jacinda Adern (enroute to Tokelau)- Bilateral Talks. July 2019 o Visit by the Vice Chairman of the China International Development Cooperation Agency to discuss future projects including the Vaiusu Port Project. July 2019. o Visit by the Deputy Director General of the Foreign Affairs Office, Guangdong Province to discuss ways to strengthen ties between the province and Samoa. August 2019. o 03rd China-Pacific Island Countries Economic Development Cooperation Forum. 19-22 October 2019. o August 2019- Visit by Malaysia’s High Commissioner to Samoa, H.E Ms Nur Izzah Wong Mee Choo to present her credentials and host a Reception for “MTCP Alumni” (Samoan nationals who have attended trainings held in Malaysia
• Assist with GOS Hosting Obligations 02nd Pacific Islands Sports Ministers Meeting, July 2019
o Pacific Games, July 2019 o ACP Ministers of Fisheries and Aquaculture Meeting, September 2019. o 04th Pacific Regional Energy and Transport Ministers’ Meeting, September 2019. o 2nd Biennial Pacific Week of Agriculture, September 2019 o 03rd China-Pacific Island Countries Economic Development Cooperation Forum. October 2019. o 84th Extraordinary Session of the Committee on the Rights of the Child, March 2020.
• Facilitate People to People Links, exchange programs and Capacity Building through Short term training;
81 ➢ China
o Student/Teacher exchange under the Sister School MOU between Huizhou Hualuogeng Secondary School and Samoa College. o China offers annual short term trainings in various sectors relevant to the development of Samoa. On average, 200 Samoan nationals are given the opportunity to attend different seminars/ trainings/ workshops in China on a yearly basis. o China-Samoa in country training programs: ▪ Nursing training program ▪ Training course on creative handicraft sewing technology
➢ Japan : Japan Exchange Programs 2019
▪ Sakura Science and Technology Student /Teacher exchanges (26th May – 1st June 2019) o 2019 is the fourth year the Japan Science and Technology Agency (JST) has invited Samoan students to participate in the Sakura Exchange Program in Science Technology. This year only three college students from Wesley College, Maluafou College and Mataaevave College and a Supervisor, Vice Principal of Faleata College attended the programme from the 26th May – 1st June 2019.
▪ High School Students Summit on ‘World Tsunami Awareness Day’
o The Summit was established to create awareness on tsunami with focus on students who will become active future leaders in creating prevention measures against tsunami and any natural disasters. Leiifiifi College (Principal & 5 students) took part in the 2019 Tsunami Awareness Summit in September in Hokkaido, Japan.
▪ Samoa-Iwaki City International Exchange Program
o The second visit by Iwaki City senior officials and college students was in August 2019. The programme for the visit included meetings with Government and SRU officials as well as a tour of the tsunami affected areas. The Iwaki College students were hosted by Avele College.
▪ Japan Rugby Football Union (JRFU) – Rugby Exchange Programme
o Six (6) participants (3 Avele College students & Principal / 2 St Joseph’s College students) took part in the rugby exchange programme sponsored by the Japan Rugby Football Union (JRFU) in Osaka from 2 – 8 October 2019. The main objective of the programme was to promote awareness / interest in the rugby sport ahead of the Rugby World Cup (RWC).
▪ Japan Olympics Exchange Program 2020
82 o Samoa was invited to select five (5) students between 14 – 18 years who are engaged in the athletics and rugby sports to travel to Tokyo for the Olympics in July 2020. Due to COVID-19 and the postponement of the Olympics, the programme has been cancelled for later notice
▪ JICA Knowledge and Co-Creation Technical Trainings
o The JICA Knowledge and Co-Creation Program is implemented as part of Japan’s Official Development Assistance to Samoa and provides annual technical trainings in various sectors relevant to the development of Samoa. On average, 34-39 trainings are offered every year to Samoa with 3-4 trainings specifically targeted at Young leaders. o 38 JICA Knowledge and Co-creation trainings (including Young Leaders Programs) were allocated to Samoa for 2019, with a total of 35 participants who participated, addressing 15 sectors which include health, education, governance, social security, environmental management. Others cover those specific sectors that JICA has on- going projects in namely water, transportation (bridge and port development), disaster management and meteorology.
➢ India o India continues to provide annual training opportunities for Samoan nationals through its ITEC Training program. o March 2020- Visit by the India’s High Commissioner to Samoa, H.E Muktesh Kumar Pardeshi to meet High Level Government dignitaries and host a Dinner reception for “ITEC Alumni”.
▪ Volunteer Schemes ➢ Samoa has benefited greatly from the deployment of technical expertise through the different volunteer schemes. The schemes not only provide technical expertise and technology transfer in many areas, but are also important in fostering people to people links between Samoa and the sending country. o Administer technical cooperation assistance needs and volunteer personnel programs in close collaboration with PSC and MOF namely:
i. Australia Volunteer International Development (AVID)
ii. Australia Youth Ambassadors Program
iii. Australia Business Volunteers (ABV)
iv. New Zealand Volunteer Services Abroad
v. Chinese Volunteers
vi. JOCV & Japanese Senior Volunteers and Expert Scheme
vii. Peace Corps
83 • Facilitate the visits of overseas dignitaries/ technical & design missions/ experts to identify and build on areas of development cooperation and mutual understanding. Timely arrangements of schedule of appointments and roundtable meetings in conjunction with line ministries, private sector and civil societies. ➢ Chinese Technical mission/ Admin officials for numerous Chinese feasibility studies ➢ Chinese Engineers for the feasibility study for the Vaiusu-Port project. June 2019. ➢ Despatch of the 4th Group of Chinese medical team from Jilin Province, including a Urologist, Otolaryngologist, Gastroenterologist, Cardiologist, Dermatologist and Pathologist. August 2019. ➢ China-Samoa Joint Economic and Trade Commission, June 2019 to discuss:
▪ The Rehabilitation of China Aid Samoa Sports Facilities Project for the 2019 Pacific Games ▪ Three Primary School Project ▪ Teaching & Research Equipment of School of Maritime training
➢ Meeting with MOFCOM team for discussion on economic trade issues and preparations for the 03rd China-Pacific Economic Cooperation Forum in October 2019. June 2019. ➢ Working team from China’s International Health Exchange and Cooperation Centre of National Health Commission to conduct preparatory work for the in-country Nursing training. August 2019. ➢ Visit by the Mayor of Huizhou to attend the Roof Sealing Ceremony for the Friendship Park and the Arts and Culture Centre. ➢ China National Engineering Research Centre of JUNCAO Technology to discuss and promote the use of the “JUNCAO Technology”. November 2019. ➢ Delegation from the Huizhou Municipality Government, Guangdong Province for mid-term inspections of the Friendship Park and Arts and Cultural Centre projects. November 2019. ➢ Meeting with the Health Commission of Jilin Province to discuss the Chinese Medical Scheme and explore ways to strengthen cooperation in Samoa’s medical field. November 2019
3. Other Achievements
• Safe repatriation of Samoan students studying in Wuhan, China and Samoan nationals stranded in Fiji during the COVID-19 outbreak. • Established frequent communication with different agencies to ensure Samoans studying/ working abroad are appropriately taken care of during the current pandemic. • Timely Government mission clearance of:
o Technical and advisory consultative teams o Implementation support missions for national and regionally implemented projects o Incoming project personnel o Diplomatic missions and
84 o Duty concession arrangements for project equipment and personnel- NZ, Australia, UNDP, FAO, WHO, UNICEF, SPC, SPREP, UNESCO, China, Japan, etc.
• Meet with specific Missions/ Envoys to discuss relevant avenues for development in terms of both short term and long term capacity building opportunities as well as other areas of development priorities including promoting new academic programs and addressing measures to enhance student academic success. • Process application submission requests through Resident Missions for ODA for national projects • Facilitate government financial contributions/ membership obligations through line ministries for regional and international organisation. • Provision of Ministerial Briefs on policy issues as required, bilateral development assistance programmes including scholarships and trainings. • As required preparation of national statements/ speeches for National Days and special events.
SCHOLARSHIPS Provision of quality advisory and secretariat support to the Scholarship Committee, a Sub- Committee of Cabinet that resolves on scholarship matters and sets policies for the administration of long and short term training scholarship opportunities. • Service monthly Scholarships and Training Committee Meetings to resolve on scholarships related matters and policy decisions. • Administration and management of long term scholarship awards to ensure timely placements, bond arrangements and final departure of scholarship awardees tenable for studies at overseas institutions under the different scholarship schemes funded through the various development partners (NZ, Australia, Japan, China, Regional USP, FNU, WHO and Commonwealth) In conjunction with PSC until full transfer of functions takes effect • Successful completion of the Science Teachers Accelerated Program (STAP). An effective study program to promote quality of teachers in the Science field by providing opportunity to undertake Bachelor of Science (teaching) degrees at USP, Alafua through online and face to face mode of study. • Assist with the management and administration of short term capacity building training programs offered on an annual basis through development partners namely China, Japan, Singapore, Philippine, India, Indonesia, Australia, Malaysia, Thailand, Korea and New Zealand. • Manage a variety of training opportunities provided by regional and CROP agencies, intergovernmental organisations eg: KOICA, JICA, ITEC, WHO, WMO, UNICEF, UNFPA, UNESCAP, IMIDHR, UNDP, FAO. • Manage and administer technical assistance, advisory and consultancy services provided by regional UN and intergovernmental agencies like SPC, SPREP, FFA, USP, FAO, WHO, UNICEF, CEDAW, UNFCCC, UNCCD, GEF, CRC, UNFPA, ESCAP, WMO, UNESCO, UNDP, UNEP, UPU: Commonwealth and under the different Conventions and International Conventions/ Agreements Samoa is party to • Close to 100% of training programs fully utilised and available to those in the public private, civil society and NGOs to enhance their capabilities and skill sets to improve performance in the work and contribute to national development efforts.
85
4. PLANNED COMMITMENTS NOT ACHIEVED DURING THE FY
• 2019/2020 in-country Bilateral training programs by the Government of China and all other capacity building opportunities offered by donor partners (China, India, Malaysia, Thailand and Japan) due to the measles outbreak last November and the current COVID-19 pandemic. • Full transfer of scholarship functions including Transfer of the Below the Line budget appropriation to PSC for payments related to scholarship matters
5. LINKAGES OF ACHIEVEMENTS TO THE SECTOR PLAN/ SDS
The SDS is a national strategy plan which identifies Governments national priority outcomes and strategically guides Government’s direction to achieve these development goals and aspirations to ensure that ➢ There continues to be improved quality of life for all Samoans ➢ Accelerated sustainable development and broader opportunities for all Bilateral development assistance programs are closely aligned to SDS strategic outcomes, with the latter being the driving force in determining key national priority areas and development assistance to develop these sectors.
Effective engagement at all levels with development partners to enhance mutual understanding and greater development cooperation enhances opportunities for commitment by Donors and key bilateral partners on development aspirations contributing to sound economic, social and environment growth.
Achievements through effective bilateral policy dialogues with development partners and resident missions essentially link to and cut across all dimensions of the 4 priority areas outlines in the SDS- economic, social, infrastructure and environment. The SDS while primarily oriented towards achieving national priorities, captures the Sustainable Development Goals (SDG) global targets which therefore provides an important link allowing key partners to commit resources to progress the SDS strategic outcomes.
6. OTHER EVENTS AND OFFICIAL COMMITMENTS ACHIEVED
• Assist with the hosting obligations of Government
➢ 02nd Pacific Islands Sports Ministers Meeting. July 2019 ➢ Pacific Games, July 2019 ➢ ACP Ministers of Fisheries and Aquaculture Meeting, September 2019 ➢ 04th Pacific Regional Energy and Transport Minister’s Meeting, September 2019 ➢ 03rd China-Pacific Island Countries Economic Development Cooperation Forum. October 2019. ➢ 84th Extraordinary Session of the Committee on the Rights of the Child, March 2020
86 • Assist with scholarship pre departure Briefings for all scholarship awardees (and parents) prior to their departure to take up studies abroad (New Zealand, Australia, Region and China) • End of year Scholarship reception hosted by the Hon. Prime Minister/ Chair STSC Committee for all NUS Foundation scholars and Open Category Awardees and parents. • Operational and strategic level meetings on scholarship harmonization arrangements with NZ and Australia. • Active participation in Sectoral and project review meetings • Effective representation at regional and international fora to promote Samoa’s position and areas of national interest to Samoa/ enhance technical cooperation and gauge development assistance
6.1 Personnel and Gender Distribution
• At present the Division operates with 6 professional staff plus 1 x ACEO o 2 x Principal Foreign Service Officers (2 x Females) o 2 x Senior Foreign Service Officers ( 1 x F and 1 x M) o 1 x Foreign Service Officer ( 1 x F and 1 x M)
6.2 Staff Training and Development
• Close staff monitoring and evaluation performances • Mentoring of staff • Frequent Division meetings • Staff rotated with responsibilities/ roles to get a general feel and appreciation of different aspects of the work • Short Term Training- both locally and overseas when the opportunity arises • Capacity building and opportunity to network when the opportunity arises through exposure at international/ regional fora.
7. Challenges During the Period • Disruption caused by the measles epidemic last November and the current COVID-19 pandemic.
OUTPUT 5: TRADE DIVISION
PROFILE: The Division is responsible for the provision of high standard policy advice on trade development to the Minister and Government and to effectively manage, coordinate and facilitate trade policy issues and trade promotion strategies, and ensure Samoa’s active participation in regional and international trade arrangements.
1. MAJOR ACHIEVEMENTS DURING THE FY 2019/2020
Multilateral Trade
The Pacific Islands Forum Secretariat (PIFS) office in Geneva continues to provide updates on developments in trade negotiations at the World Trade Organisation (WTO). The
87 negotiations for a WTO Fisheries Subsidies Agreement (FSA) have been the most active with the aim to put in place comprehensive and effective disciplines on fisheries subsidies that contribute to overcapacity and overfishing (OCOF); and eliminate subsidies that contribute to IUU-fishing. The PIFS Geneva office continued to coordinate the Pacific’s position especially for Pacific members that do not have permanent representation in Geneva. Samoa trade and fisheries officials participated in the regional consultations to develop the Pacific position in Nadi in July 2019 in collaboration with the Forum Fisheries Agency (FFA); and the WTO Fisheries Subsidies Cluster meeting in December 2019 in Geneva. The Pacific’s position is in line with Samoa’s fisheries development direction. Samoa and other Pacific ACP members presented this position during the ACP Ministers in charge of Fisheries and Aquaculture meeting held in Apia, 10-12 September 2019.
Samoa also received updates from the PIFS Geneva office on the plurilateral discussions at the WTO on the Joint Statement Initiatives (JSI) on E-commerce, Investment Facilitation for Development, Micro, Small and Medium Enterprise (MSMEs), and Domestic Regulation in Services Trade; as well as new initiatives on Trade and Environment and Plastic Pollution.
On the WTO Trade Facilitation Agreement, the World Bank mission to Samoa in August 2019 included consultations with stakeholders and established the terms of reference for Samoa’s working group and draft implementation plan on how to improve transparency at the border (customs) and reduce ‘red-tape’ to facilitate the smooth flow of imports and exports. Samoa notified WTO of the implementation dates for the different categories of TFA measures following the work undertaken by the World Bank. Some of the activities scheduled to be implemented by June 2020 such as Customs notification systems and standard operating procedures are postponed to due to COVID-19. The implementation dates have been revised and notified to WTO.
At the seventh biennial Global Aid for Trade Review (GAFTR) in Geneva in July 2019, Samoa shared its perspective at the Australia event “Stepping up in the Pacific: Australian approaches to Aid for Trade” on economic diversification opportunities. Samoa was also invited to share its experience on LDC graduation in an information session hosted by Vanuatu as part of their preparations to graduate at the end of 2020.
A WTO National Workshop on Trade Statistics was held in Apia on 2-4 September 2019 through technical assistance from the WTO to build capacity of public and private sector stakeholders on trade in goods and services statistics through the use of existing international trade statistics tools and databases.
Due to COVID 19 restrictions, the WTO 12th Ministerial Conference that was to take place in Kazakhstan has been postponed to 2021.
On the EU-Pacific Interim Economic Partnership Agreement (EU-PIEPA), Samoa participated, for the first time, as a full member at the seventh Trade Committee in Suva in October 2019. A Samoa-EU bilateral trade meeting was also held in the margins of the Trade Committee meeting. Samoa and the EU will now consider the priority needs for Samoa to implement and benefit from the agreement. Support for implementation will include activities under the Pacific Regional Integration Support Programme (PRISE).
Six private sector representatives and officials from Customs and Trade participated in the regional Rules of Origin workshop that was also held in the margins of the IEPA meetings in
88 Suva. This is the first workshop of its kind which was delivered directly by officials from the European Commission’s Taxation and Customs Union Directorate General. The first meeting of the Special Committee on Customs Cooperation and Rules of Origin was also held. Samoa will host the eighth Trade Committee meeting in 2021 which will include capacity building sessions to benefit a larger number of Samoa private sector and government officials.
In April 2020, Samoa accepted the European Union’s offer of the reciprocal arrangement for the acceptance of electronic origin certificates to facilitate trade during the COVID-19 period.
The Ministry has provided contributions and coordinated relevant input from government agencies to the Post-Cotonou negotiations including on the trade dimension of the successor agreement which has a Trade Cooperation component under the Foundation Agreement and the Pacific Regional Protocol.
On 31 January 2020, the United Kingdom officially withdrew from the EU with a transition period that will end in December 2020. The United Kingdom had sought to develop new trade agreements to replicate, as far as possible, the provisions of existing EU trade arrangements. In 2019, Fiji, PNG and the United Kingdom negotiated and signed the UK- Pacific Interim Economic Partnership Agreement (UK-PIEPA) to maintain trade with the Pacific.
In February 2020, Samoa conveyed the formal request to accede to the UK-PIEPA following Cabinet approval on 24 December 2019 (FK (19)47). This is to secure the duty free access of Samoa’s exports to the United Kingdom from the end of the BREXIT transition period.
The Commonwealth Trade Ministers meeting convened in October 2019 discussed the Commonwealth Connectivity Agenda for Trade and Investment committed to mainstream inclusive and sustainable across the Connectivity Agenda clusters: Physical Connectivity, Digital Connectivity, Regulatory Connectivity, Business-to-Business Connectivity and Supply Side Connectivity. The Honourable Lautafi Fio Selafi Purcell, Minister of Commerce, Industry and Labour supported the emphasis on the impacts of climate change on Small Island Developing States which is a priority for the Pacific particularly as Samoa is now preparing to host the Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting (CHOGM) in 2022.
Regional Trade
At the end of June 2020, six PACER Plus signatories have ratified the agreement: New Zealand, Australia, Samoa, Kiribati, Tonga and Solomon Islands. Two more ratifications are required for the agreement to enter into force.
PACER Plus Senior Trade officials met in October 2019 in Port Vila, February 2020 in Suva and virtually in June 2020 to prepare for the entry into force of the agreement. The PACER Plus Trade Ministers also met in February 2020 and endorsed progress made as well as encouraged the remaining PACER Plus signatories to fast-track their ratification process with the intention of entry into force of the agreement by June 2020.
The key developments in PACER Plus for Samoa include:
• Submission of Samoa’s proposal in March 2020 to host the PACER Plus Implementation Unit;
89 • IMF mission to Samoa in January 2020 through the support of the Readiness Package and submission of the Report “Samoa revenue mobilization options to address PACER Plus” in March 2020. The report is being considered by the Ministry of Finance;
• The Pacific Labour Mobility Annual Meeting held in Auckland in November 2019 considered ways to further develop labour mobility in the region such as the need for training and capacity building activities to improve skills and qualifications to meet the requirements of labour receiving countries; development of a coordinated regional approach to inclusivity to address challenges affecting the participation of women and those with disability; and consideration for a PLMAM secretariat to handle all related matters and advance the objectives of the Arrangement on Labour Mobility;
• Samoa’s Trade Information Portal (TIP) was developed by UNCTAD under the Readiness Package to support signatories in the implementation of transparency obligations under PACER Plus. The Ministry of Commerce, Industry and Labour as the Trade, Commerce and Manufacturing sector coordinating arm is taking the lead in this project which was validated through a national workshop held in October 2019;
• The Ministry of Customs and Revenue received technical support from the Oceania Customs Organisation (OCO) for HS and MAO transposition; certified Customs trainers for the rules of origin and training for customs and trade officials and stakeholders; and
• Common guidelines are being developed to support key agencies in the implementation of obligations in Rules of Origin, Customs Procedures, Sanitary & Phytosanitary, Technical Regulations, Standards & Conformance, Investment, Services & Temporary entry and Transparency.
Senior PACER Plus officials continue to meet virtually in working groups to prepare for implementation when the agreement enters into force.
The Forum Trade Ministers’ Meeting in February 2020 endorsed the plan of the Pacific Island Countries Trade Agreement (PICTA) modernisation work. The Review of the Rules of Origin started in 2019. Samoa was scheduled to have in-country consultations in early 2020, but due to the COVID-19 restrictions these consultations did not take place.
Other regional trade initiatives include the Regional Pacific Quality Infrastructure which is being developed to support Forum Island Countries (FICs) deliver high quality goods and services, regionally and internationally. The initiative provides an opportunity for Samoa to strengthen its regulatory framework to address non-tariff barriers, increase trade competitiveness and access international markets for our exports. Consultations and awareness programs will roll out in 2021 for national stakeholders.
The Pacific Islands Forum Secretariat organised two virtual briefing meetings for Pacific ACP States in February and May 2020 to update the members on Post Cotonou negotiations. Comments and positions were shared with the Ambassador for Samoa in Brussels who is the lead negotiator for the Pacific.
90 Bilateral Trade
Bilateral discussions with United Kingdom progressed on Samoa’s accession to the United Kingdom-Pacific IEPA. Further discussions are expected to take place in the latter half of 2020 with a view to concluding Samoa’s accession by 2020.
Bilateral meetings were also undertaken with the European Union on the EU-Pacific IEPA with a view to develop Samoa’s implementation plan and identify priority needs for EU support.
Contributions from Samoa to the Australia’s Phase I of the Kava pilot project was coordinated from government agencies for submission. Since 17 December 2019, travellers of 18 years and over are permitted to take Kava to Australia of up to 4kgs for personal use, an increase from the 2kg restriction that had been in place since 1997. The Ministry also submitted further comments on 31 May 2020 for Phase II of the project focussing on kava exports on a commercial basis. Phase II on the Kava commercial pilot programme is currently on hold due to COVID19.
Samoa hosted the Third China Pacific Island Countries Economic and Development Cooperation Forum from the 19-22 October 2019. During this Forum, China and Samoa signed the GACC (General Administration of Quality Supervision, Inspection and Quarantine) Protocol Arrangement for the export of marine fishing products from Samoa to China. The GACC is China’s border agency responsible for border health checks, customs, inspection and quarantine of exported and imported animal and plant products etc. Samoa is required to establish a Competent Authority in order to export fish to China. The MOU provides a platform for Samoa-China collaboration to facilitate fish exports to China. This activity is still ongoing for it requires more time and resources.
There are also plans in the pipeline to conduct a China-Samoa FTA feasibility study to determine whether a bilateral free trade agreement with China is beneficial. The Ministry submitted a TPN19/748 dated 2 December 2019 to the Chinese Embassy officially conveying Samoa’s interest to undertake a joint feasibility study. The Ministry is currently awaiting further communication from the Chinese side including a possible draft Terms of Reference and next steps to pursue this matter.
Trade Promotion
The Ministry facilitated arrangements for the joint mission to Samoa of the New Zealand Samoa Trade and Investment Commission (NZSTIC) and the New Zealand Pacific Business Council (NZPBC) on the 5-6 August 2019. The two-day program provided the delegation the opportunity to deepen their understanding of trading and investing in Samoa. A business conference was held with presentations and panel discussions from the government, Samoa private sector and the delegation and included an overview of Samoa’s economy, investment, conducting / doing business in Samoa and development projects.
In the spirit of promoting private-public partnerships, the Ministry provided the opportunity for the Samoa Chamber of Commerce to take the lead in organizing Samoa’s participation in the Dubai World Expo 2020. The Ministry works closely with the Chamber through the Dubai Expo Commitee to prepare for Samoa’s participation. The Dubai Expo has been postponed to commence in October 2021 due to COVID-19 which will give Samoa ample time to prepare
91 for the 6-months long world exhibition. The construction of the Samoa Pavilion is at its final stages and the Committee is now looking at cosmetic details such as façade images, photographs, designs for the interior and exterior of pavilion, programme and national day.
The Minister of Commerce, Industry and Labour, Hon. Lautafi Selafi Purcell led Samoa’s delegation to the Second China International Import Expo in November 2019. Samoa will feature an exhibition for the Third CIIE in November 2020.
The Samoa Association of Manufacturers and Exporters (SAME) took the lead in organizing Samoa’s participation at the First Pacific Exposition (Indonesia) held in Auckland in July 2019.
Local handicraft vendors were organized to set-up their goods for display and sale at a number of international meetings held in Samoa including the ACP Fisheries and Aquaculture Ministerial Meeting in September 2019.
Trade – related Capacity Building
The Ministry facilitated Samoa’s participation in a number of trade related capacity building activities abroad for private sector and government officials. Some key capacity building opportunities include:
• Ms Lonnie Tuatagaloa, Senior Foreign Service Officer (Trade) of the Ministry was selected to participate in the Japanese Language Program for Foreign Service Officers Programme, Sept 2019 – April 2020 in Osaka, Japan; • Ms Raewynn Manuleleua, Foreign Service Officer (Trade) of the Ministry was accepted as the WTO Regional Coordinator Intern at the Pacific Islands Forum office in Geneva, 17 February to 21 August 2020; • Global Aid for Trade Review, Geneva, 3-5 July 2019 • Advanced Course on the Economic Analysis of Trade Policy, Geneva Switzerland, 27 June – 5 July 2019 • Regional workshop on Fisheries Subsidies for Government Officials from Pacific Region, Nadi, Fiji, 22-24 July 2019 • Phytophora Symposium and New Zealand Plant Protection Conference, New Zealand, 12-15 August 2019 • Train the Trainers Workshop on Coconut Policy Advisory Document for the Pacific Region, Nadi, Fiji, 13-15 August 2019 • Commonwealth Connectivity Cluster Meeting, London, England, 27-31 August 2019 • Regional capacity building on Rules of Origin under the EU-Pacific IEPA, 30 September 2019 – 1 October 2019 • 39th WTO Geneva Week, Geneva Switzerland, 14-18 October 2019 • WTO Advanced Technical Barriers to Trade Short Course, Geneva Switzerland, 12- 15 November 2019 • WTO Trade Facilitation Committee Meeting and related workshops, Geneva Switzerland, 14-18 October 2019 • Advance Global Workshop on Import Licensing, Geneva Switzerland, 30 – 4 October 2019 • Advanced Course on WTO Dispute Settlement, Geneva Switzerland, 2-6 December 2019
92 • World Customs Organisation (WCO) National Workshop on Time Release Study (TRS), Apia Samoa, 4-8 November 2019 • WTO Singapore Workshop on E-Commerce, 6-8 November 2019 • WTO Trade and Public Health Workshop, Geneva Switzerland, 11-15 November 2019 • Commonwealth Regional Workshop on Trade Facilitation Implementation, Sydney Australia, 12-13 November 2019 • WTO Fisheries Subsidies Clusters Meeting, Geneva Switzerland, 2-6 December 2019 • Commonwealth Cluster Week 2, London, 17-19 February 2020 • WTO Advanced Trade Policy Course, Geneva Switzerland, 27 January-13 March 2020
Many more capacity building activities were cancelled due to COVID-19 including the WTO Trade Facilitation Agreement and Supporting Strategic and effective implementation in the Pacific Region, Sydney Australia, 16-20 March 2020; and the WIPO-WTO Advanced Course on Intellectual Property, Geneva Switzerland, 16-27 March 2020
2. PLANNED COMMITMENTS NOT ACHIEVED DURING THE REPORTING PERIOD
• American Samoa yet to indicate when they will host the next Two Samoa Economic Talks • Update trade information on the Ministry’s website
3. LINKAGES OF ACHIEVEMENTS TO THE SDS AND TRADE, COMMERCE AND MANUFACTURING SECTOR PLAN
The trade policy and trade promotion work contribute to the achievement of Samoa’s strategic priorities in the SDS; and the objectives as integrated in the Trade, Commerce and Manufacturing Sector Plan 17/18 – 20/21 to:
7.1.1.1 Improve industrial supply and productivity; 7.1.1.2 Increase processing activities and value-addition; 7.1.1.3 Enhance market access and visibility of goods and services; and 7.1.1.4 Strengthen sector coordination
The above responds to the SDS Key Outcomes 2, 3 & 5 relating to enhancing agricultural production, markets, exports and tourism; as well as improving private sector participation in policy development.
OUTPUT 6: PROTOCOL SERVICES DIVISION
PROFILE: Protocol Division activities for the financial year 2019-2020 reflect the rationale behind the need for the Ministry’s restructure as Samoa takes a lead in the region as a small island developing state and a preferred host for international meetings due to good governance, ability to implement international agreements and refinement of roles in the conduct of foreign relations. The scope of work undertaken by the Division under the guidance of the CEO is represented through statistics which sees a significant increase in regularity and numbers compared to the previous financial year.
93 1. Official State and High Level Visits
From July-December 2019, 13 major official state visits and international meetings took place which brought over 147 foreign dignitaries (state leaders and ministers) to Samoa from different countries.
The Sports Ministers Meeting and Pacific Games in July was the first of large scale operations which occupied the first three weeks. Hon. Jacinda Adern, Prime Minister of New Zealand completed July with a two day visit and transit en route for Tokelau.
Ministerial level meetings covered September which commenced with the SPREP Environment Ministers Meeting followed by the 6th ACP Ministers for Fisheries & Aquaculture, 4th Pacific Regional Energy and Transport Ministers and Pacific Week of Agriculture. A total of 56 Ministers and 19 Heads of International Organizations attended with delegations.
The Vice Premier of China, HE Hu Chunhua visited in October 2020 for the 3rd China- Pacific Economic and Cooperation Forum. Two Prime Ministers and 19 Ministers represented the Forum Island countries. They were inaugural visits for the Vice Premier and Hon. Pohiva Tuionetoa as Prime Minister. On December 2020, Hon. Vaovasa Winston Peters accompanied by Hon. Aupito William Sio visited Samoa in support of national efforts during the measles.
It was a marathon of activities from planning with foreign counterparts and local authorities, briefings, trainings for liaison officers, trial runs with security personnel to airport courtesies and coordination of programmes.
2. Presentation of Credentials & Official Visits by Ambassadors/High Commissioners
The arrival of Ambassadors and High Commissioners continued simultaneously until it was called off in late March 2020 due to coronavirus. Nine Ambassadors and High Commissioners presented their Credentials to His Highness the Head of State.
A historic moment was the first resident UK High Commissioner to Samoa, HE David Ward presenting his credentials in December followed by the new resident Ambassador of Japan. The first Ambassador of Ireland to Samoa, HE Peter Ryan was received by the Head of State during this period.
Seven (7) Ambassadors conducted official visits on specific bilateral issues and election campaigns for intergovernmental organizations. Throughout this span, 88 courtesy calls were arranged with the Prime Minister, Cabinet, Ministries and Private Sector.
Date Name Country Purpose Residence Calls 2 July 2019 HE Scott Brown USA OFFICIAL Wellington 4 28 Jul 2019 HE Mario Bot Canada OFFICIAL Wellington 7 5 Aug 2019 HE Itzhak Gerberg Israel OFFICIAL Wellington 6 29-Aug-19 HE Nurr Izzah Mee Choo Singapore CREDENTIAL Wellington 8
94 08-Oct-19 HE Vuyiswa Tulelo South CREDENTIAL Wellington 6 Africa 10-Oct-19 HE Peter Ryan Ireland CREDENTIAL Wellington 6 10 Nov 19 HE Fausto Lopez Crozet Argentina OFFICIAL Wellington 7 10-Dec-19 HE David Ward UK CREDENTIAL Wellington 5 12-Dec-19 HE Genichi Terasawa Japan CREDENTIAL Apia 3 12-Dec-19 HE Sujiro Seam EU CREDENTIAL Fiji 8 18-Dec-19 HE Gen (Ret) Francis Agwi PNG OFFICIAL Wellington 1 5-Jan-20 HE Philip Parham (Envoy) UK OFFICIAL Apia 4 27-Feb-20 HE Mr Stefan Krawielicki Germany CREDENTIAL Wellington 6 03-Mar-20 HE Mr Michael Winzap Switzeland CREDENTIAL Wellington 2 5-Mar-20 HE Sujiro Seam Fiji OFFICIAL Fiji 5 12-Mar-20 HE Mr Muktesh K Pardeshi India CREDENTIAL Wellington 10 12-May-20 HE Aliioaiga Feturi Elisaia Samoa AGREMENT Samoa
Protocol processed eleven (11) Agréments for foreign ambassadors and secured appointments for ceremonies but was postponed given Covid-19. In order of precedence: Portugal, Thailand, Egypt, Holy See, Czech Republic, Mexico, Pakistan, Korea, Israel and Poland.
3. Airport Protocols & Courtesies
These are key instruments of hosting visiting leaders and ministers. Requests are received from Foreign Ministries for expedited clearances and exemption from security screenings on arrival and departure. Similar arrangements are organized by the Division with foreign counterparts for our leaders.
Protocol conducted 99 airport courtesies for foreign dignitary visits to Samoa while 26 were accommodated for the HOS, COD, PM and Cabinet on official travel. Only one courtesy was arranged at the wharf for the Ulu o Tokelau.
Ministers were requested through MPMC to greet and farewell foreign Head of States and Head of Governments. The VIP Fale is hired and the attendance of a protocol officer is mandatory for each visit. For information, a single flight often brings in more than one dignitary requiring these services.
4. Diplomatic Clearances
i. Registration of Vehicles for Diplomatic Licenses
Protocol screened and facilitated endorsement for the issuance of Diplomatic License Plates for 70 vehicles of which: 14 are new registrations, 48 renewals and 8 transferals at the completion of term for diplomats in Samoa. One case was declined due to a cap of vehicles for an organization based on staff numbers and utilization which is strictly confined for diplomatic duties. An investigation was also conducted with the assistance of Ministry of Customs and Revenue on unexpired duty and was resolved with the removal of a diplomatic plate from a local staff of the Embassy.
95 Missions and international organizations were constantly reminded this year to return all diplomatic plates to the Ministry when they are no longer needed.
Missions/Organizations New Renewal Transferal Total Australia 2 6 2 10 China 4 6 2 12 FAO 0 4 0 4 ILO 0 1 0 1 Japan 1 6 1 8 JICA 0 3 0 3 New Zealand 2 7 0 9 SPREP 0 3 0 3 UNDP 1 5 1 7 UNESCO 1 2 0 3 United States of America 1 4 2 7 United Kingdom 2 0 0 2 WMO 0 1 0 1 Total 14 48 8 70
ii. Government & Military Aircraft and Vessels Diplomatic clearances for entry into Samoa’s sovereign airspace and exclusive economic zone were processed for 44 foreign aircrafts and 9 foreign vessels. Purposes varied from patrolling of waters, search and rescue, humanitarian and emergency relief, transit and overfly en route to destinations. Six (6) clearances were for our local vessels (2 Lady Naomi and 4 Nafanua) to enter American Samoa and return with emergency shipment of oxygen cylinders for the Motootua Hospital during the measles.
A flight during SOE required Cabinet approval before clearance was formalised. Three (3) aircrafts flew in supplies and medical teams for measles. For Covid-19, eleven (11) were repatriation charters for departure of foreigners and return of Samoans citizens to Apia. These also accommodated the return of resident diplomats. The nine (9) foreign vessels that were provided clearance included 2 for Tokelau for shipment of Covid-19 medical supplies. The Division urged missions for complete and detailed data that are essential for services by the Maritime and Aviation authorities
Country/Organization Aircrafts Vessels Comment Australia 18 2 2 for Measles Cook Islands 1 Official France 1 1 Official Germany 1 Repatriation Italy 1 Official Latter Day Saints 2 Repatriation New Zealand 9 1 Measles Medic Team Samoa 6 Lady Samoa/Nafanua Tokelau 2 Supplies - Covid-19 Tonga 1 Official United States of America 2 2 1 Repatriation Covid-19 AirNZ Special 8 NZ to Apia Flight Covid-19 Fiji Airways 2 0 1 Repatriation, 1 Medical Supplies Total 44 15 Protocol Database: FY19/20
96 5. Duty Concessions
i. Beverages
The division processed thirteen (13) requests by Missions for duty free purchase of alcohol beverages for official functions. Eight (8) were for the New Zealand, three (3) requests submitted by US and one (1) request each from the Australia and the FAO
ii. Office Equipment/Project & Construction Materials/Furniture
A total of 144 duty and tax exemptions for consignments for diplomatic missions were facilitated with Customs, Police and ports for clearances. These items also included construction materials for chancery and residence. Australia’s commitment to our Police submitted majority of cases for personnel training and maintenance of the Nafanua. The construction and set up of the British High Commission shaped its requests while Japan and New Zealand were associated medical supplies and staff deployment.
Protocol Database FY19/20
6. Temporary Resident & Ministerial Permits
Applications for this financial year were mainly on temporary resident permits from international organizations with minimum requests from diplomatic missions. Changeover of staff was limited by travel restrictions and necessitated extensions terms for incumbents. Compositions of this category are diplomats, medical teams, regional advisors, technical consultants and dependents.
Hundred and thirty nine (139) permits were assessed, reviewed and granted endorsement before submission to Immigration, MPMC for issuance. Twelve (12) of the submissions were technicians seconded to Government ministries for infrastructural and medical projects such as with LTA and Health.
97
Protocol Database FY19/20
i. Diplomatic Identifications As an imperative element of accreditation, the layout and design of Diplomatic ID Cards were re-examined and modified for distinct features of categories amongst diplomats, consular officers and representatives of international organizations. The understanding of immunities and privileges by representatives has often been misconstrued hence the review.
7. Consular Services i. Specimens Specimens are important documents for understanding the latest characteristics of passports issued by countries to its citizens. It is a vital reference for Protocol during assessment of passports enclosed for permits.
Security features within specimens were shared in-confidence for authenticating travel documents. It is paramount for national security to protect borders from fraudulent travellers and transnational crimes. Specimens on competent signatures and travel documents for Samoa are dispatched to update foreign authorities for the same purposes.
Sixteen (16) specimens received were assessed and transmitted to border authorities. Six (6) comprised of new passports for Brazil, Argentina, Japan and the United Kingdom. Two (2) identification cards were received from Latvia and dispatched to respective officials.
A total of eight (8) requests for Samoan official signatures, seals, certificates and passport specimens were requested from the Governments of Switzerland, Philippines and Indonesia for their records and verifications. A recommendation was made for electronic copies.
ii. Travel Documents & General Consular
Consular assistance was rendered to applications relayed by our overseas missions and offices. Fifty-one (51) cases were for Samoan passports, certificates for police clearance, birth, citizenship and a marriage confirmation. Apart from travel documents, fifteen (15) applications were handled for return of deportees, repatriation approvals and extradition matters for the judiciary. Support was given to ten (10) consular issues raised by foreign nationals’ in France, Fiji, Senegal and Germany.
98
The bulk of requests were channeled through our representation in Sydney and Canberra followed by Auckland and New York. The least cases were from Brussels.
Protocol Database FY19/20
iii. The Global Pandemic of Covid 19 The State of Emergency with the closure of borders due to the global pandemic resulted in a congestion of consular issues coming to the Ministry. Enquiries on government plans, travel requirements, return of Samoan stranded overseas and repatriation of foreigners took up most of March to June 2020. These were registered through reception referrals, meetings, emails, telephone calls, social media and formal letters.
The staff provided instant responses based on information warranted by the CEO for consistency and clarity. Counseling was offered in some cases to people overwhelmed with separation and desperation to return home. Advice was disseminated on channeling requests to the CEO and Samoa’s overseas missions for coordination. Daily discussions took place with resident missions, foreign offices, religious groups and private institutions for the arrangement of repatriation charters.
Over 350 enquiries were handled by Protocol which is a mere portion of the influx of Covid- 19 related requests received by the CEO and the Ministry for over 700 foreign citizens in Samoa and approximately 4000 Samoans overseas affected. It was a unique challenge on the delivery of consular assistance.
8. Diplomatic Notes (Note Verbales)
Protocol issued a total of 257 diplomatic notes of which 249 were for the facilitation of visa applications by public servants for duty travel. The rest was for government requests for Covid-19 and accreditation of diplomatic staff for appointed for postings.
Diplomatic notes were halted for all visas requests following directive by Cabinet on suspension of overseas trips. The attention shifted to expediting official repatriation and emergency requests for coronavirus.
9. Legalizations and Apostille’s
Samoa as a member of the Hague Apostille Convention 1961 continues to issue Apostille Certificates which authenticate certifications of public documents for recognition in foreign countries. The CEO, MFAT is the only authorized authority under the convention
99 to sign an Apostille. Exemption is granted to the Acting CEO in the absence of the principal.
Protocol processed and prepared 673 Apostille certificates for signature in which 645 were company documents submitted by SIFA and the remainder was public documents including such as certificates for birth, marriage and others. Despite the disruptions from measles and coronavirus, monies collected from fees accounted for the highest revenue received by the Ministry.
10. Diplomatic Relations & Missions
Support and advice was accorded to the establishment of the first resident High Commission of UK in Samoa and its official opening ceremony on the 9th March 2020. This brings the total number of resident diplomatic missions to six (6); Australia, China, Japan, New Zealand, United Kingdom and United States of America.
Submissions were drafted for the CEO on Ministerial approval concerning requests by foreign countries to formally establish diplomatic relations with Samoa. The most recent was Ghana, signed at Ambassadorial level by our Mission in New York in December 2019. Samoa now enjoys formalized diplomatic relations with one hundred (100) countries.
Cabinet approved two new diplomatic missions for Samoa in Fiji and Switzerland. Protocol worked with the Protocol Department of the Fiji on the accreditation of Head of Mission and set up of Chancery and official residence in Suva. The Agrément for Mr. Aliioaiga Feturi Elisaia as High Commissioner-designate of Samoa to Fiji was granted by Fiji on May 2020.
11. State Letters
Eight (8) congratulatory state letters were received for Samoa’s 57th Independence and twenty-two (22) for the 58th anniversary. Messages were also received during the measles epidemic. These were subsequently conveyed to the Office of Head of State and Prime Minister.
Protocol maintains a record letters received from foreign leaders and monitors international events that warrant messages from the Prime Minister (and as Minister of Foreign Affairs) to fellow state colleagues. These are for national day, general elections, state funerals and others. An example was a letter drafted for the Prime Minister to the President of Korea on his re-election in April 2020.
12. National Events & Protocol Advice
Protocol drafted the Opening and Closing Programmes for the Pacific Games including the Declaration to Officially Open the Games by the Head of State. It was imperative to capture the Pacific Games statutory procedures under its Charter and government protocols in the programme without compromising traditions for such occasions.
Given the coordination by the Ministry of the 100th Anniversary of the 1918 Influenza Epidemic in 2018, Protocol coordinated the opening ceremony of the Renovation Project
100 of the Memorial Site on 23rd August 2019 with the village of Vaimoso and officials from New Zealand High Commission. It was opened by the Hon. Carmel Sepuloni, Minister of Social Development of NZ.
The Division crafted a simpler format with narration composed by the CEO for the “Ava Ceremony” accorded to high level visits and foreign dignitaries. The success of the initiative was witnessed during the visit of the Vice Premier of China and Committee Meetings on the Rights of Child hosted in Apia.
Protocol advice was provided to Ministries hosting regional and international meeting in Apia on logistics covering airport, transportation, ceremonial procedures and others. Training sessions were conducted for specific staff recruited for protocol duties and the experience builds up the pool of liaison officers for VIPS during meetings with multiple countries in attendance.
13. Protocol and Honorary Consul Guideline
These are the two main documents to be produced by the Division. Since its inception in 2018, progress was stalled due to absence of full permanent staff until May 2020.
A review was conducted on agreements between government and 20 regional and international organizations based in Samoa. The exercise determined the extent of immunities and privileges offered to each which will be streamlined in the guide.
A review and draft of the Honorary Consuls manual has been compiled for submission to Management. Part of the review included communications with Samoa’s Honorary Consuls overseas for validation of contacts and activities.
14. Challenges and Opportunities
a. Staff Shortage Staff shortage continued to be an issue with pending approval of divisional structure proposed in the restructure as approved by the Public Service Commission. The recruitment of personnel within the Ministry during operations is revitalizing but cannot be sustained. Consolidated planning with visiting officials and local authorities are conducted in advance for a minimum of 4 weeks or more and requires a consistet staff updates and follow-ups.
Simultaneously, the development of the Protocol Guideline, Honorary Consuls manual and daily core functions towards resident missions and international organizations cannot be neglected. They are equally important and the size of our diplomatic corps in country continues to expand as well as the frequency of meetings hosted by Samoa.
Protocol requires its full staff of (2 Principals, 2 Seniors, 2 Officers) to ensure fair distribution of workloads, sustained high quality performance and recovery in between operations. Staff should be able to take leave and embark on training opportunities by the Ministry without disruption of services
101 b. Channel of Communications Regular reminders are sent out to staff of missions on the importance of channeling communications pertaining to diplomatic immunities, privileges and government matters through the CEO of MFAT for clearance and endorsement. Many direct requests to local authorities were held up and referred to Protocol for the necessary clearances.
c. Exemption from Security Screening Protocol officers constantly encountered problems with airline check-in staff on clearance for foreign leaders (Heads of States and Prime Ministers) during security screening. It was resolved through meetings called with the MPMC, AA and Airlines in which it was agreed that exemptions are stipulated under Cabinet Directive and Civil Aviation regulations
OUTPUT 7: REGIONAL RELATIONS DIVISION
PROFILE: The Division is responsible for the provision of high quality advice and support to the Minister and Government on regional relations as well as on the progression of regional priorities to promote and advance deeper regionalism. The Division also facilitates and ensures Samoa’s active participation in regional work in line with Samoa’s national sustainable development priorities and commitments.
1. SUMMARY OF FY 2019/2020 HIGHLIGHTS i. Political/Economic Relations The Ministry represented Samoa at the annual meetings of the Pacific ACP Officials (PACP), the Pre-Forum Forum Officials Committee (FOC) and the Forum Foreign Ministers (FFMM) in July 2019, as well as a Special Forum Economic Minister Meeting (FEMM). A key outcome of the FFMM was a recommendation to Forum Leaders’ to support the development of a 2050 Blue Pacific Strategy for deepening Pacific Regionalism under the Framework for Pacific Regionalism. Forum Ministers also reaffirmed the strengthening of regional priorities, including fisheries, climate change and disaster resilience, regional security, and oceans and maritime boundaries.
The Hon. Prime Minister attended the 50th Pacific Islands Forum held in August 2019 in Tuvalu, which included the Pacific ACP Leaders Meeting; the Leaders meetings with the Forum’s Associate Members and Observers, and Civil Society Organisations and Private Sector representatives; meeting with the Heads of CROP Agencies; the Forum Leaders Retreat; and the Leaders’ Dialogue with Forum Partners. The Hon. Prime Minister also attended a meeting of the Polynesian Leaders Group held in the margins of the Forum meetings as well as bilateral meetings with Samoa’s development partners. The Ministry’s full engagement in and contribution to the meetings of the Forum Secretariat leading up to the Forum Leaders’ meeting enabled it to fully support and advise the Hon. Prime Minister on key matters of importance to Samoa, including in the conduct and management of Samoa’s relations with developments partners. The annual FOC Budget Session held in late November 2019 endorsed the 2020 Workplan and Budget of the Forum Secretariat to facilitate ongoing regional work and implementation of Leaders’ directives.
102 A 2020 Special Session of the FFMM was convened virtually on 7 April 2020 following the triggering the provisions of the 2000 Biketawa Declaration to commence consultations on a regional response to COVID-19 with Members, regional organisations and relevant international organisations. Minsters agreed to the establishment of the Pacific Humanitarian Pathway for COVID-19 under the oversight of a Ministerial Action Group established pursuant to the Biketawa Declaration. ii. Social Relations
The Ministry supported the Ministry of Education, Sports and Culture in hosting the 2019 Pacific Sports Policy Roundtable as well as the 2019 Pacific Islands Sports Ministers Meeting in July just prior to the hosting of the Samoa 2019 Pacific Games. Chaired by the Minister of Education, Sports and Culture, Sports Ministers from the Pacific recognised the valuable contribution of sport in the social, cultural and economic life of the Pacific people and strongly advocated for continued investments in the Pacific people as its greatest resource. Ministers also underscored the importance of existing international and regional frameworks in highlighting the importance of sport as a vehicle to drive development, promote peace and foster empowerment and inclusive participation.
The Ministry provided full support to the Hon. Prime Minister as the keynote speaker in the Pacific Unity Against Corruption Meeting held Kiribati in February 2020. The Teieniwa Vision reflects the commitment of the participating countries as well as encourages other Pacific countries to tackle corruption in all levels of society, and to develop and maintain independent integrity bodies in line with commitments to the United Nations Convention against Corruption and the SDGs, in particular SDG16. iii. Environmental, including climate change and disaster risk reduction
Alongside the Fisheries Division of the Ministry of Agriculture and Fisheries, the Ministry was represented at the 113th session of the Forum Fisheries Committee (FFC113) held in late December 2019. The meeting informed substantive preparations for the 16th Regular Session of the Commission for the Conservation and Management of Highly Migratory Fish Stocks in the Western and Central Pacific Ocean (WCPFC) held in December 2019. Amongst other outcomes, a climate change resolution was adopted responding to the call from Pacific Islands Forum Leaders for increased attention, including in scientific research, to be placed on the impacts of climate change on the region’s highly migratory tuna stocks, including links between fishing activity and climate change.
The Ministry also participated in the FFC114 meeting convened virtually in June 2020. This meeting considered the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic on the work programme of the FFA as well as possible support that could be provided to Members in their response and recovery from the impacts of COVID-19, including strengthening of measures to address IUU fishing and the development of protocols/procedures for ensuring health and safety on vessels at sea and in ports.
Samoa chaired the 29th SPREP Meeting as well as the SPREP Environment Ministers’ Meeting in September 2019. As a Troika member, the Ministry participated in preparatory meetings to consider key priority issues in the lead up to both the 29th SPREP and Ministerial meetings, which included climate change, ocean governance and
103 management, and marine pollution and seabed mining. The Pacific Climate Change Centre was also officially opened in September 2019. The Centre embodies a common aspiration of the Pacific Leaders and governments for a strategic opportunity to build the Pacific’s capacity through knowledge, training, networking and research to ensure Pacific-tailored solutions to address the Pacific’s own adaptation needs and mitigation priorities.
The Ministry was also substantively involved in the preparations and hosting of the ACP Aquaculture and Fisheries Ministers Meeting, the 5th SPC Pacific Energy and Transport Ministers Meeting, as well as the FAO-SPC Ministers of Agriculture and Fisheries Meetings, all of which were held in September 2019.
Due to impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic, many of the key regional meetings scheduled for the first half of 2020 were re-scheduled to the second half of the year.
2. MAJOR ACHIEVEMENTS DURING FY2019/2020
2.1 Preparation for and provision of quality advice/briefs/reports to inform/support Samoa’s policy positions at key regional and global meetings, as well as inform discussions at national level on key priority issues. Key regional meetings held in FY2019/2020 include: i) 2019 Pacific Sport Policy Roundtable and 2019 Pacific Sports Ministers Meeting (Jul.2019); ii) Pre-Forum FOC and FFMM (Jul.2019); Special Forum Economic Minister Meeting (Jul.2019); annual PACP and Forum Leaders’ meetings (Aug.2019); Budget FOC & related Forum policy meetings (Nov.2019); Special Session of the Forum Foreign Ministers Meeting (Apr.2020); iii) 29th SPREP Meeting of Officials and SPREP Ministerial meeting(Sept.2019); SPREP Troika meeting (Jun.2020); iv) 2nd MTCC–Pacific Regional Workshop (Maritime Technology Cooperation Centre) and 5th SPC Pacific Energy and Transport Ministers Meeting (Sept.2019); FAO-SPC Heads and Ministers of Agriculture and Fisheries meetings (Sept./Oct.2019); and CRGA Special Budget Session (Nov.2019); v) FFC112 (Oct.2019), FFC113 (Dec.2019) and FFC114 meetings (June 2020); an vi) Pacific Unity Against Corruption Meeting (Feb.2020).
2.2 Continued work to update the database of: i) Samoa’s regional membership, engagements and funding levels by institution; ii) regional assistance by development partners and by sector to assess alignment to and support to national priorities and policies at all levels; and
2.3 Updating of an assessment of regional performance of organisations towards regional platforms, roadmaps, frameworks and pathways.
3. LINKAGES OF ACHIEVEMENTS TO THE SECTOR PLAN/SDS The Ministry’s proactive contribution to policy work contributes to the scope of the SDS focusing on the three pillars of sustainable development: social, economic and
104 environmental. Specifically, the Ministry’s regional work supports the SDS Key Outcomes 2, 3, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 13 and 14.
OUTPUT 8: LEGAL SERVICES DIVISION
PROFILE: The Legal Services Division is a new division created under the organisational restructuring of the Ministry that was approved by Cabinet in 2017/2018 and commenced with the appointment of its Divisional Head in July 2019. The Division is responsible for overall strategic legal policy advice and planning in respect to Samoa’s foreign policy, trade policy, foreign representation, relations with regional and international organizations, protocol services and support to resident and non-resident diplomatic missions including international organizations based in Apia and implementation policy framework in relation to all areas under the Ministry’s jurisdiction. In particular to: - Review and provide quality legal advice to Government on Samoa’s position on issues involving international and regional relations with other states; - Provide legal guidance and advice on Samoa’s obligations and position in international and regional conventions, treaties and declarations and trade negotiations; - Identify critical legal concerns for policy development focusing on the preparation of guidelines and platforms on global and regional issues of importance to Samoa - Provide legal advice and support on all aspects of the Ministry’s work and operations including the overseas missions work responsibilities - Provide legal advice on areas of contract management the Ministry is involved in - Provide legal advice on the application of the Diplomatic Privileges and Immunities Act 1978.
1. SUMMARY OF FY 2019/2020 HIGHLIGHTS
The financial year has been eventful with growing referral of issues to the Legal Division to advise on and/or provide support towards. In terms of general legal advice this has ranged from assisting to provide comments on Phase 2 of Reports for a Foreign Investment Advisory Committee to coordinating responses in relation to High Tech Youth Network (HTYN) Activity in Samoa as required by the NZ High Commission, for the purposes of Parliamentary Select Committee scrutiny in New Zealand.
For international treaty reporting, the Legal Division has supported the role of the International Relations Division through review and contribution towards the common core document and ICCPR treaty specific report. From a trade perspective, support has been in the form of reviewing compliance with WTO obligations as per amendments to legislation (e.g. alcohol policies and laws in relation to excise tax).
An increase in providing legal advice for diplomatic relations has also been noted. This is evident through advices provided for consular immunity, arrest of a Samoan citizen overseas and advice on application of provisions of the Citizenship Act 2004 to name a few.
105 This past year has been eventful in terms of hosting large events and conferences including the 4th Pacific Regional Energy and Transport (Maritime) Ministers Meeting (REMM Meeting), 16th – 20th September, the 6th ACP Fisheries Ministers Meeting, and the Pacific Games. The Legal Division assisted in the review and clearance of Host Agreements for these meetings. Similarly, Host Agreements or Headquarters Agreements were also reviewed and cleared by the Legal Division.
For multilateral treaty making, legal advice has been particularly important in clarifying domestication in relation to the New York Convention on Arbitration and the Singapore Convention on Mediation in addition to several other international treaties. In some cases, this has also led to the need for new or amending legislation. The current legislative drafting worklist includes a Disarmament Bill, Extradition Amendment, Crimes Amendment Bill and others.
In terms of Bilateral Agreements there have been numerous agreements signed in the past year. Some of MOU status but others intending to create internationally binding commitments. Examples include Tax Information Exchange Agreements, China Agreements signed during the China-Pacific Economic Forum and Pacific Labour Scheme Arrangements. The Legal Division were involved in either drafting, review, clearance or advising on the legal implications of signature.
The Ministry has been engaged in facilitation of requests for extradition and mutual legal assistance. These include a request to extradite to New Zealand and a request to extradite from Australia.
Finally, maritime boundary delimitation continues to be an important feature in legal work conducted by the Legal Division with input and representation at bilateral teleconferences, preparation of Ministerial briefs and workshops overseas.
2. MAJOR ACHIEVEMENTS DURING FY2019/2020
i. International Treaty Making and Reporting Obligations International treaty making refers to the act of signature, ratification, accession, acceptance, definitive signature, consent to be bound, withdrawal from or termination of all international treaties and arrangements.
The Division has provided legal advice and support in relation to all aspects of the treaty making process for Samoa, by conducting legislative compliance reviews, advising on reservations to accession or the accession process, preparing instruments of ratification, advising on legislative amendments and legislative drafting procedures etc. Some of the multilateral treaties worked on include: a. IAEA Safeguards Review/Advice b. Instrument of Ratification for the Agreement for the Encouragement and Protection of Investment between Samoa and OFID c. PACER Plus ratification advice d. Clarification regarding: Singapore Convention signing (instrument of full powers), Arbitration Convention
106 e. Memo on Implementation of New York Convention: Samoa International Arbitration Reform - ADB Technical Assistance f. TPNW and other Nuclear related Conventions g. SROS IAEA Membership advice h. Advice on membership to OIIE Membership into the OIIE i. IEPA j. Advice on Informal Consultations on the MLA initiative
The Division has also contributed to compliance with Samoa’s reporting and assessment of compliance with existing obligations under various international agreements. For example: a. Common core document & ICCPR Treaty specific report b. Support UNCAC Review conducted by other Divisions c. Convention on Enforced Disappearance d. Confirmation of compliance with WTO obligations as per amendments to legislation (Turkey Tail and WTO commitment) April
Some of the Bilateral Agreements/Arrangements which saw involvement of the Legal Division in either drafting, review or clearance included: a. Tax Information Exchange Agreements with India b. Visa Waiver Agreement with India c. MOU with China Council on Proposed International Trade d. Pacific Labour Scheme Implementation Arrangements with Australia e. Arrangements/Agreements with China i. MOU on e-commerce ii. MOU on infrastructure iii. MOU on Investment and productivity iv. MOU for the 3 x Primary schools v. Agreement on Economic and Technical Cooperation vi. Protocol Agreement for Export of Marine Fishing Products from Samoa to China vii. Memorandum of Understanding between the Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs of the People’s Republic of China and the Ministry of Agriculture and Fisheries of the Independent State of Samoa on Agricultural Cooperation f. Double Taxation Agreement with New Zealand (advice on entry into force)
ii. Legal Policy Advice
The Division has supported the Ministry in formulating policy, through identifying legal concerns for policy development, providing guidance on Samoa’s obligations or position under international law and providing legal advice. This is in areas such as Maritime Boundaries where the Ministry is Co-Chair of the Maritime Boundaries Committee and Disarmament, the Guidelines for Hosting Meetings and the International Treaty Making Guide (in consultation stages).
The main tasks completed in relation to maritime boundary delimitation were the continuation of talks with New Zealand on behalf of Tokelau which began with
107 teleconferences and culminated in a face to face discussion with the negotiation team from NZ in Sydney. As a member of the delegation progress was made in terms of identifying potential issues and how to continue to move forward despite these complications. Legal advice/briefs also continue to be provided to the PM and at National Committee meetings. Delimitation talks also took place between Samoa and USA and Samoa and Tonga.
iii. Diplomatic Privileges and Immunities
The Division has actively supported the role of Ministry as Administrator of the Diplomatic Privileges and Immunities Act 1978 by advising on the interpretation and application of the Act and the Vienna Convention on Diplomatic Privileges and Immunities. For example, for the support in drafting proposal for Samoa to host the PACER Plus Implementation Unit, through clarification on options for legal establishment. Other legal support has been in the clearance or review of host agreements for major meetings hosted in Samoa such as the a. Host Agreement for 4th Pacific Regional Energy and Transport (Maritime) Ministers Meeting (REMM Meeting) hosted in Samoa, 16th – 20th September b. 6th ACP Fisheries Ministers Meeting c. Pacific Games Host Agreement
iv. Legislative Drafting
The Ministry has made progress in determining the needs for legislative drafting for disarmament and other key areas under international law that require to be domesticated before ratification. A legislative drafting worklist has also been compiled to identify timelines and manage priority areas. For example – Reform of Foreign Affairs Act and implementing legislation for human rights treaties to be ratified. The current legislative drafting worklist is attached.
v. Extradition and Mutual Legal Assistance
A Mutual Legal Assistance Request from New Zealand was reviewed and forwarded to the Office of the Attorney General in relation to CBL Insurance Ltd. Similar action was also taken in relation to the extradition request for Mr. Tulisi Leiataua from the NZ Government.
More recently, the Legal Division assisted in the conveyance of an extradition request to Australia for Mr. Talelelei Pauga to face prosecution for charges of conspiracy to commit murder.
vi. Contracts Review and Clearance
The Division has supported the Ministry in successfully reviewing and clearing contracts, Agreements and MOUs entered into by the Ministry on behalf of Government.
108 Currently, contracts/agreements and MOUs are cleared if forwarded to the Legal Division for clearance. Some contracts reviewed/drafted include the Contract for Consultancy Service - Digital Samoa Initiation Plan; Consultancy contract for ICT audit, and construction templates for the Chancery Project in Wellington, New Zealand.
The usual legal assistance and support was also provided for procurement needs of the Ministry (for clearance of tender documents and contracts) and legal advice where there were issues in procured services or goods. This was particularly important when procurement was expedited for international meetings hosted in Samoa such as the China Forum.
vii. Support Meetings
Listed below are some of the meetings the Legal Division participated in or contributed towards. a. National Workshop on the Arms Trade Treaty b. 4th Pacific Regional Energy and Transport (Maritime) Ministers Meeting (REMM Meeting) hosted in Samoa, 16th – 20th September c. 6th ACP Fisheries Ministers Meeting d. Pacific Islands Sports Ministers Meeting 5 July 2019 e. Support Women, Peace and Security Summit (August) f. 3rd China- Pacific Island Countries Economic Development Cooperation Forum (Oct)
1. PLANNED COMMITMENTS NOT ACHIEVED DURING FY2019/2020 i) Completion of a database – an ongoing development with an estimated 60% completion. Work has progressed at a pace slower than anticipated given the increasing fields required for data and adaptation/conversion to more efficient database management tools. ii) Reform of Foreign Affairs Act 1976 iii) Guide for International Treaty Making –draft completed for consultation and finalization
CORPORATE SERVICES & OVERSEAS MISSIONS DIVISION (CSOMD)
PROFILE: The Corporate Services & Overseas Missions Division (CSOMD) is responsible for ensuring that the proper support and services are provided to the professional staff of the Ministry including those at our overseas missions in a timely and efficient manner. The support services provided by the CSOMD in all aspects of its work towards the fulfillment of the mandated functions of the Ministry are very important. The following are the CSOMD’s main areas of responsibilities within the Ministry which the division had effectively managed and closely monitored during the 18 – 19 financial year under review: i. Accounts and Administration support services
109 ii. Support services to Samoa’s nine (9) overseas diplomatic missions/consular posts and the office of the Student Counselor in Suva, Fiji. iii. Human Resource and Staff Professional Development iv. Information Technology Services v. Transport Services vi. Secretarial/Front office services vii. Records Management
1. FY2019/20 Highlights
The following are the Ministry’s other achievements in the support services areas for the FY2019/2020:
i) Revised “Guideline on the Terms and Conditions for Diplomatic Staff in the Samoan Foreign Service 2019” The revised Guideline on the terms and Conditions for Diplomatic Staff in the Samoan Foreign Service was approved in June 2019 and became effective on 1st July 2019. The revised Guideline also included the review of the overseas allowances for the diplomatic staff overseas and only those in New York, Australia and Japan were confirmed to have met the criteria for an increase in allowances.
ii) Samoa Airways office at the Samoa Consulate General’s office in Sydney Australia An arrangement was made with the Samoa Airways to have their office housed in our Consulate General’s office premises in Liverpool, Sydney Australia. Similar arrangements have been made with the Samoa Tourism Authority and MCIL to have their officers housed at the same premises.
iii) Samoa Consulate General’s office in American Samoa: Visit by Project Management Committee : 27 September 2019 The representatives of the Project Management Committee including the Chief Executive Officer for the MOF, General Manager for ACC, Assistant CEOs for MWTI and MFAT travelled to American Samoa on 27th September to see the land earmarked for the construction of the new Samoa Consulate General’s office in Tafuna and also to meet with the relevant officials in the American Samoan Goevernment for help and support with our project. This project is now deferred due to border restrictions as a result of the Covid19 pandemic.
iv) Project on the Information and Communication Technology (ICT) skills and infrastructure Audit This project has been made possible with funding from the UNDP office. The purpose of the project is to conduct a review of the Government of Samoa’s ICT instrastructre and human capacity for the four (4) pilot Ministrues namely the Ministry of
110 Communications & Instrastructure Technology; the Ministry of the Prime Minister & cabinet, the Ministry of Fiannce and the Mnistry of Foreign Affairs & Trade. The contractor XCONX Pty Ltd from Australia was approved by the Tenders Board to undertake this project at the end of December however due to border closures as a result of Covid 19, the project had to be postponed and is now being undertaken virtually. v) Digital Transformation Familiarisation Study Tour to New Zealand: 17 – 20 November 2019 Our ACEO – Corporate Services & Overseas Missions Division was part of the delegation from Samoa on this study tour to New Zealand, The purpose of the familiarization tour was to try and understand New Zealand’s digital transformation journey to assist us with our own digitial transformation journey given that Government has prioritised ICT and approved the establishment of the Digital Transformation Authority (DTA) among the other ICT priorities. The tour was a success as it enabled the delegation to learn and appreciate the many lessons and best practices of the New Zealand’s digital transformation work which would be useful to our preparations and direction for the establishment of the DTA. vi) New Equipment for official virtual meetings The current COViD19 situation has led to an increase in the number of virtual meetings that our officials and ministers are required to participate in. To meet the increasing number of virtual meetings and in ensuring that our participation and engagement at these important meetings are ongoing, the Ministry has purchased new equipment to ensure that we are able to connect to these meetings whenever we need to. An additional video conferencing facility unit was purchased through the kind assistance of the Forum Fisheries Agency (FFA). The Ministry now has the appropriate equipment for virtual meetings available in three conference rooms. vii) Performance Management The Ministry continued to make sure that the Performance appraisals of all employees including contract officers are completed to meet the Ministry’s human resource strategy in line with the PSC’s human resource development framework.
SECTION 4: MFAT COMPARISON DATA 1 July 2019 – 30 June 2020
1. Employee Statistics The overall number of staff by the end of this financial year was seventy-seven (77). The Head Office in Apia comprised of fifty four (54) staff and the Overseas Missions’ Offices comprised of twenty-three (23) staff. (Refer tables/graphs 1.1-1.3)
111 1.1 Apia Main Office-Local staff
Contract Permanent Term Total Employees Employees Employee Males 2 15 1 18 Females 7 30 0 37 TOTAL 9 45 1 55
1.2 Overseas Missions Offices-Posted Staff
Heads of Other Posted Staff Total Missions/Posts (HOD/HOP) Males 7 5 12 Females 3 8 11 TOTAL 10 13 23
1.3 Overall (Apia and Overseas Missions Staff) By Gender Distribution
Contract Permanent Term Overseas Total Employees Employees Employees Posted Employees Males 2 15 1 12 30 Females 7 30 0 11 48 TOTAL 9 45 1 23 78
According to the above tables, there were thirty (30) males (i.e. 39%) and forty eight (48) females (i.e.i 61%) out of the total number of seventy eight (78) employees during the 2019-2020 financial year. The gender distribution of the Ministry staff has always been more females than males. Management also consisted of seven (7) females including the Chief Executive Officer (CEO) and one (1) male.
2. Recruitment & Selection Statistics
Type of Recruitment & Gender Designation Salary Grade
Selection
Contract Position (1) F ACEO C1
A18
Contract Position (1) M Overseas Mission Manager
Re-hire/Change Position (2) F PFSO A16
Re-hire/Change Position (2) F SFSO A12
Newly recruited (1) F SFSO A12
Re-Hire/Change Position (2) M SFSO A12
Newly recruited (1) M SFSO A12
Newly recruited (3) F FSO A10
Newly recruited (2) M FSO A10
112
During this financial year, there were fifteen (15) recruitment and selection (R&S) processes being carried out resulting in the appointment of two (2) Contract positions level officers and thirteen (13) new Permanent staff.
3. Resignations During this financial year, five (5) staff resigned from the Ministry and the majority were permanent staff. The staff turnover was due to career advancement, professional development opportunities overseas and personal reasons.
3.1 Financial Year 2019/2020
Employee Category Gender Designation Salary Grade
O F Student Counsellor-Fiji CS2
O M First Secretary-New York A12
O F Principal Foreign Service Officer A16
O F Foreign Service Officer A10
O M Principal Foreign Service Officer A16
• Support Staff – staff within the Corporate Services & Overseas Missions Division and the Legal Services Division • Professional Staff – staff classified as Foreign Service Officers within the Core Divisions
3.2 Resignations per FY (2016/2017 - 2019/2020) Apia Office
FY FY 2019/2020 2018/2019 FY 2017/2018 FY 2016/2017
Support Services 0 4 1 2 Staff
Professional Staff 5 3 2 4
TOTAL 5 7 3 6
113 4. Professional Development The Ministry was fortunate to take advantage of the several professional training opportunities offered overseas and locally by PSC. These opportunities assisted staff to upgrade their skills and knowledge for their professional development and capacity building. (Refer 5.1 and 5.2)
Not limited to the above, there were also other on-the job trainings and meetings / workshops organised by the other line ministries that staff attended in the various areas/fields. These opportunities enabled our staff to learn new ideas and skills for the purpose of professional development and capacity building .
4.1 Trainings (Overseas/Local) 26
Training Course Title Training Duration of Location of Staff attended Provider Training (in Training working days) WTO/PIFS Regional PIFS 22 – 24/10/2019 Vanuatu Louis Ofele Lene Workshop on LDC Graduation Marissa LDCs/SIDs Trust Fund OHCHR 19 – 21/11/2019 Nadi, Fiji Toomata Workshop for the Pacific Region Global Dialogues on UNESCAP 12 – 15/11/2019 Sydney, Asiata Gerard Ocean Accounting Australia Anapu New York, 16 – 18/12/2019 USA Matilda Bartley The Nippon Foundation United Nations – Sustainable Ocean Nippon Programme Foundation 30/09 – Workshop on Trade for ACP-EU 04/10/2019 Suva, Fiji Terozita Uitime the Pacific Region and Kelekolio the Union of Europe 25th Conference of the Madrid, UNFCCC 2 – 13/12/2019 Spain Anna Main Parties of the United National Convention on Climate Change 24/11 – Foreign Diplomatic Romanian 8/12/2019 Romania Rodney Lavea 2019 @ RDI Government 24/11 – Foreign Diplomatic Romanian 8/12/2019 Romania Asiata Gerard 2019 @ RDI Government Anapu Marissa Comprehensive DKI APCSS 1 – 28/08/2019 Honolulu, Toomata Maritime Security Co- Hawaii Operation Course
114 23/07 – Beijing, Seminar on Trade & Chinese 12/08/2019 China Davina Koria Investment Facilitation Government for Sector Officials.. Train the Trainers SPC 13 – 15/08/2019 Nadi, Fiji Isaia Lautasi workshop on Coconut Advisory 68th Professional 16/09 – Course for Foreign FFA 11/10/2019 New Delhi, Maketa Peteru Diplomats India London, Commonwealth Commonwealth 27 – 31/08/2019 United Louis Ofele Lene Connectivity Cluster Secretariat Kingdom Week Honiara, International Fisheries Solomon Dorothy J Negotiations Course FFA 9 – 13/09/2019 Islands Anetone 17/08 – 5th Program for Young Guangdong 08/09/2019 Guangdong Sulesa Aivale Leaders form the Pacific Provincial Province Island Countries Government Regional Workshop on UNITAR 23 – 25/09/2019 Nadi, Fiji Anna Main Strengthening monitoring for the SDG’s Japan Lonnie Japanese Language Foundation 25/09/2019 – Japan Tuatagaloa Program for Foreign 22/05/2020 Service Officers & Japanese Public Officials Language Institute 30/09 – Tamarini International Fisheries WTO 4/10/2019 Geneva Peleseuma Negotiations Course Mauafu
Fulfillment of Reporting London, Rapture Commitments Commonwealth 16 – 17/09/2019 United Pagaialii Secretariat Kingdom obligations in the field of Conventional Arms Control.. PSC & Office of 18/11/2019 Convention Terozita Uitime, Awareness Program for the Centre, Sarona Tomane, Public Servants on Ombudsman Ground Floor Reupena Healthy Relationships TATTE Matauiau, and Skills building on Marissa Identify and dealing Toomata
115 with relational issues within families FFA Regional Honiara, Prosecutions FFA 10 – 14/02/2020 Solomon Constance Tafua Workshop Islands Rivers – Lesa
Samoa Police Service Hotel Francella Training in MOP 16 – 20/03/2020 Millenia, Strickland/Anna International Human Apia Main/Matilda Rights Bartley/Gerard Anapu/Marissa Toomata Pacific Climate SPREP, Change Portal (PCCP) SPREP 4 – 6/05/2020 Vailima Francella User Requirements Strickland Workshop VNR Data Validation MFAT 7 – 8/05/2020 MFAT Francella workshop Conference Strickland Room, Apia
27/01 – 2020 WTO Advance WTO 27/03/2020 Geneva, Terozita Uitime Trade Policy Switzerland Kelekolio
World Trade Relation WTO 17/02-21/08/2020 Geneva, Raewynn Coordinator Internship Switzerland Manuleleua Programme
SECTION 5: FINANCIAL PERFORMANCE – 2019/2020 Financial year
FINANCIAL STATEMENT FOR THE YEAR UNDER REVIEW MFAT BUDGET TRENDS FY2016/2017 – 2019/2020
MFAT BUDGET TRENDS $24,000,000.00 $23,613,084.00 $23,500,000.00 $23,338,744.00 $23,000,000.00
$22,500,000.00 $22,607,739.00 $22,000,000.00
$21,500,000.00 $21,381,925.00 $21,000,000.00
$20,500,000.00
$20,000,000.00 2016-2017 2017-2018 2018-2019 2019-2020
116 The MFAT budget trend graph above shows the financial position of the Ministry in the last four financial years. The financial year 2019-2020 budget was ST$23,613,084 which was about ST$274,340 more than the previous financial year budget of $23,338,744. The increase was due to the increase in Missions’ Operational Activities such as the relocation provision for staff going for overseas assignments and the inclusion of some provisions under the Below Line budget to cater for the International and Regional Meetings hosted by the Government such as the ACP Fisheries Aquaculture Meeting, VNR workshop and the various bilateral meetings and other workshops hosted by the Ministry in 2019. However, there were some meetings that were planned to take place in late 2019 and early 2020 such as the Pacific Climate Change Conference but were all cancelled due to the Measles Epidemic in late 2019 and the COVID-19 Pandemic in 2020.
MFAT APPROPRIATION FOR FY2019-2020
This graph illustrates the following three (3) core categories of the MFAT’s Appropriation Account:
1) Local Output, 2) Overseas Missions and 3) Transactions on behalf of the State.
The graph shows that the biggest proportion of the Ministry’s Appropriation budget is allocated for Overseas Missions at 58% of the full year budget, 26% for the Transaction on behalf of the State and 16% for Local outputs.
The local component of the budget allocation covers all divisional operating budgets as well as all the Prime Minister’s and CEO’s related travel and Daily Subsistence Allowances, airfares and all other related expenses for their participation at the various regional and international meetings. The local salaries for all staff including those going on diplomatic postings are also included under this provision.
The Overseas Missions’ Outputs 3.1 – 3.10 utilized fifty-eight percent (58%) of the MFAT Appropriation. Payments of overseas allowances and wages for locally engaged staff, missions’ operational budgets and Head of Missions travel for accreditation purposes to other countries are all catered for under this output. The regular minimal increase in the Missions budgets also took into account the fluctuation in foreign exchange rates for each location as expenses are normally paid in the foreign currency of the country of post.
The ‘Transaction on Behalf of the State” output MFAT APPROPRIATION FOR utilized twenty-six percent FY2019-2020 (26%) of the Ministry’s Appropriation over the 16% LOCAL OUTPUT period being reported. 26% $3,864,322.00 Appropriations under the $6,196,09… OVERSEAS MISSIONS Transactions on Behalf of 58% the State or Below Line $13,552,670. TOTAL TRANSACTION ON Items are mainly 00 BEHALF OF THE STATE incorporated for specific one off purposes relating to hosting local, regional and international meetings in
117 Apia such as the ACP Fisheries Aquaculture Meeting, VNR workshop and various bilateral meetings and other workshops hosted by the Ministry in 2019. Additional to this are payments of Government’s contributions to regional and international bodies in each given year depending on our membership fees and pledges. The provision for the Samoan Government Scholarship Scheme is also included under this heading together with other Government Policies/Initiatives.
SECTION 6: ACRONYMS
ACC – Accident Compensation Corporation ACP – African Caribbean and Pacific ALFS – Asia Ladies Friendship Society ANZ – Australia and New Zealand APTC – Australia Pacific Training Coalition AusAID – Australian Aid Agency BTL – Below the Line BRD – Bilateral Relations Division CEO – Chief Executive Officer CHOGM – Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting CPs – Customs Procedures CROP – Council of Regional Organizations of the Pacific CSL – Computer Services Limited CSOMD – Corporate Services & Overseas Missions Division DFAT – Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade DFL – Distance Flexible Learning DTIS – Diagnostic Trade Integrated Study EC – European Union EIF – Enhanced Integrated Framework EPA – Economic Partnership Agreement EU – European Union FAO – Food Agriculture Organization FEMM – Forum Economic Ministers Meeting FFA – Forum Fisheries Agency FFCMIN7 – 7th Annual Forum Fisheries Committee Meeting FICs – Forum Island Countries FICTOMPP+ - Forum Island Countries Trade Official Meeting Pacer Plus FTMM - Forum Trade Ministers Meeting GATS – General Agreement Trade Services GATT – General Agreement on Tariffs and Trade GOS – Government of Samoa H.E – His / Her Excellency HRC – Human Resource Coordinator HRD – Human Resource Development IFAD – International Fund for Agriculture Development ILO – International Labour Organization IOT – Institute of Technology IP – Intellectual Property IRD – International Relations Division
118 IT – Information Technology ITC – International Trade Centre ITEC – Indian Technical and Economic Cooperation ITTC – Institute for Technical and Training Centre JICA – Japan International cooperation Agency JOCV – Japanese Overseas Cooperation Volunteers JTWG – Joint Technical Working Group KOICA – Korea International Cooperation Agency LDC – Least Developed Country LM – Labour Mobility LSD – Legal Services Division MCIL – Ministry of Commerce Industry and Labour MESC – Ministry of Education Sports and Culture MFAT – Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade MFN – Most Favourable Nation MJCA – Ministry of Justice Courts and Administration MOF – Ministry of Finance MOU – Memorandum of Understanding MPMC – Ministry of Prime and Cabinet MTCP – Malaysia Technical Cooperation Programme NGO – Non Governmental Organization NSAs – Non State Actors NUS – National University of Samoa NWCTA – National Working Committee on Trade Arrangement NzAID – New Zealand Aid Agency OCO – Oceania Customs Organisations OCTA – Office of the Trade Advisor PACER plus – Pacific Agreement for Closer Economic Relations PACPs – Pacific African, Caribbean & Pacific States PACPTOM- Pacific African Caribbean Partnership Trade Meeting PICTA – Pacific Island Countries Trade Agreement PICTA TIS – Pacific Island Countries Trade Agreement Trade PIFS – Pacific Islands Forum Secretariat PLG – Polynesian Leaders Group POC – Point of Contact PSC – Public Service Commission PSD – Protocol Services Divsion RC – Reference Centre RoO – Rules of Origin RRD – Regional Relations Division RSE – Regional Seasonal Employment SAT – Samoan Tala SDS – Strategy for the Development of Samoa SIA – Social Impact Assessment SIDSTEC – Small Island Developing states Technical Cooperation SIFA – Samoa International Finance Authority SIS – Small Island States SNES – Samoa National Export Strategy
119 SPARTECA – South Pacific Regional Trade and Economic Agreement SPBEA – Secretariat of the Pacific Board of Educational Assessment SPC – Secretariat of the Pacific Community SPREP – South Pacific Regional Environment Programme SQA - Samoa Qualification Authority SSS – Samoa Government Scholarship Scheme STSC – Staff Training and Scholarships Committee STTA – Short Term Training Awards SWP – Seasonal Worker Programme TBT – Technical Business to Trade TCDC – Technical Cooperation for Developing Countries TCM – Trade Commerce Manufacturing TD - Trade Division TECA – Trade Economic Cooperation Agreement TIEAS – Tax Information and Exchange Agreements TiS – Trade in Service TMNP – Temporary Movement of Natural Persons UK – United Kingdom UN – United Nations UNCTAD – United Nations Conference on Trade and Development UNDP – United Nations Development Program UNDRO – United Nations Disaster Relief Coordinator UNESCO – United Nations Educational, Scientific Cultural Organization UNFPA – United Nations Population Fund UNGA – United Nations General Assembly UNIDO – United Nations Industrial Development Organization UNOPS – United Nations Office for Project Services USA – United States of America WHO – World Health Organization WIPO – World Intellectual Property Organisation WTO – World Trade Organization
120