17 August 2019 Henderson Western Australia. The Government of Australia handed over the newest Guardian-class Patrol Boat Nafanua II to the Samoan Government at a ceremony in Henderson, Western Australia yesterday.
Nafanua II was received by Samoa’s Deputy Prime Minister the Honourable Fiame Naomi Mata’afa and the Commissioner of Police Su’a Fuivaili’ili Egon Keil.
Australia’s Minister for Defence Senator Linda Reynolds said defence engagement with Samoa is continuing to grow through ship visits, cultural and sports engagements and community activities.
“The strong and enduring security partnership we have with the Samoa Police Service is evident as we deepen our defence cooperation through the exchange of the Guardian-class Patrol Boat under the Pacific Maritime Security Program,” Minister Reynolds said.
Minister for Defence Industry, the Hon Melissa Price welcomed the Samoan delegation.
“I am honoured to host the Deputy Prime Minister and Commissioner of Police, along with the crew – including the first three female officers of the Samoa Police Maritime Wing – who are training with our Navy in preparation for the journey home.”
Australia’s Fishing Management Authority has requested the Nafanua II to gather surveillance information in Australian waters during their return transit to Samoa. This arrangement is in line with the Niue Treaty Subsidiary Agreement.
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