ASG seeks to postpone Atoa o Samoa Talks

Pago Pago, AMERICAN SAMOA — The American Samoa Government is seeking to postpone the Atoa o Samoa talks scheduled in September and set it for October 13-15 instead.

This was confirmed in a letter to Prime Minister Fiame Naomi Mata’afa, dated August 17, 2022 from Governor Lemanu Peleti Mauga citing the declaration of a State of Emergency in relation to the volcanic activities in Ta’u Manu’a.

Lemanu acknowledged receiving the invitation from the Samoa Government, however due to unforeseen circumstances, it behooves the Administration to seek a postponement.

He apologized for the inconvenience caused but said September is not available for the American Samoa Government.

The Atoa o Samoa talks, formerly known as 2Samoa Talks were held in July and it was characterized by Fiame as a “meet and greet” for the two countries.

On Wednesday Governor Lemanu in his Executive Order said the facts and evidence that have been gathered so far have supported a compelling reason to prioritize the protection of life and property in Manu’a. “By signing this Executive Order, I want to ensure that all local resources are made available to respond efficiently and effectively in case these eruptions worsen.”

“I want to recognize and commend the first responders that are on the ground and have been standing by in Manu’a. Many of them have been mobilized to assist with displaced villagers and guarantee the safety of all evacuees,” said Lemanu in his Executive Order.