NEW ZEALAND Prime Minister Christopher Luxon will be honoured with a matai (chiefly) title during his state visit to Samoa next week.
The ceremony, hosted by Apia Village, is scheduled for 16 March in front of the Government building.
Luxon is expected to arrive in Samoa on 15 March for his second official visit as Prime Minister.
The matai title is being conferred as a gesture of appreciation for New Zealand’s longstanding support and partnership with Samoa.
These include aid and collaboration in areas such as economic development, climate change, and education.
During the visit, Luxon will take part in a Guard of Honour and Samoa’s flag-raising ceremony, followed by the title bestowal led by Apia’s high chiefs.
Samoa and New Zealand share a close relationship, strengthened by a large Samoan community in New Zealand and the Treaty of Friendship between the two countries.
The visit and ceremony were confirmed following discussions between Samoan and New Zealand officials, including a recent meeting between Samoa’s Prime Minister and the Apia Village Council.
Source: Samoa Global News