Prime Minister Laualialemalietoa Leuatea Polataivao Schmidt has spoken about the comments and discussions circulating online following the conferral of a Samoan chiefly title on Christopher Luxon.
The Prime Minister advised Luxon not to be overly concerned about criticism on social media.
“Don’t worry about the nonsense on Facebook,” he said. “Let your village of Apia sort it out and handle it with respect.”
He explained that in Samoa, matters relating to respect, culture and chiefly titles are traditionally addressed within families, villages and communities, rather than through arguments online.
Prime Minister Laualialemalietoa also used the opportunity to remind people of the long-standing relationship between Samoa and New Zealand.
He said the connection between the two countries has grown over many years and is now much deeper than politics alone. Many Samoan families have relatives living, studying and working in New Zealand, helping to create strong personal and family ties between the two nations.
“New Zealand and Samoa are no longer just friends — we are family,” he said. “Politics may change, but family lasts forever.”
The Prime Minister also reflected on the shared history between the two countries, including the sacrifices made by soldiers that are remembered each year during ANZAC Day.
He added that the special Samoan title bestowed on Prime Minister Luxon reflects the strong cultural bond between Samoa and New Zealand.
In closing, Prime Minister Laualialemalietoa shared a hopeful message about the future of the relationship between the two nations.
“We share good times, we share difficult times, and we share many memories together,” he said.
He concluded by wishing both countries well and expressing hope that their partnership will continue to grow stronger in the years ahead.
“May our relationship continue to grow like a bed of red roses without thorns, and may God bless both New Zealand and Samoa.”
