APIA, Samoa, CMC – Bahamas Prime Minister Philip Davis has held bilateral talks with Prime Minister Fiamē Naomi Mataʻafa on several issues, including support for the Caribbean Community (CARICOM) country’s bid for a seat on the United Nations Security Council.
A statement issued following the talks said that the two leaders also discussed climate change challenges confronting Small Island Developing States (SIDS) and the formal establishment of diplomatic relations between Samoa and the Bahamas.
Davis is among the leaders who have arrived here to attend the October 21-26 Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting (CHOGM), which will be held under the theme “One Resilient Common Future: Transforming our Commonwealth.”
According to the statement, during the bilateral meeting, Prime Minister Davis emphasized his country’s commitment to advocating for the unique needs of SIDS, particularly regarding climate resilience, disaster preparedness, and sustainable development.
He noted that The Bahamas’ candidature for the UN Security Council reflects its broader vision to represent and amplify the voices of SIDS on the global stage.
“As part of their discussions, both leaders signed a joint communiqué to establish formal diplomatic relations between The Bahamas and Samoa. This agreement marks a significant step in fostering a stronger partnership based on mutual respect and shared values. Both governments reaffirmed their dedication to the principles enshrined in the United Nations Charter, the Commonwealth Charter, and the promotion of peace, security, and national sovereignty,” the statement said.
It added that this new relationship aims to enhance cooperation across various sectors, including trade, tourism, cultural exchange, and climate adaptation strategies.
Prime Minister Davis expressed confidence that this partnership would open new avenues for collaboration on critical issues affecting both nations and other SIDS globally.
Prime Minister Mataʻafa was joined by Samoa’s Permanent Representative to the United Nations, Fatumanava Dr. Pa’olelei Luteru, and H.E. Francella Strickland, Samoa’s Ambassador to Belgium.
“The signing ceremony served as a reminder of the importance of international diplomacy and the shared aspirations of all Commonwealth members for a resilient, peaceful, and prosperous future,” the statement added.
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