DUBAI – The Independent State of Samoa celebrated its National Day at Expo 2020 Dubai on Saturday with a strong focus on its long-term development goals to help the country’s COVID-19 pandemic recovery, as well as a special cultural performance featuring members of the country’s Rugby Sevens team.
His Excellency Noah Al Hammadi, Director of East Asia and Pacific, UAE Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation welcomed Mr Tuala Leaega Patrick Leota, Executive Council Member of the Samoa Chamber of Commerce.
His Excellency Noah Al Hammadi said: “Samoa’s pavilion focuses on entrepreneurship and sustainable development, incorporating Expo 2020 Dubai’s subthemes throughout the exhibition as key pillars within the country’s strategy for development.
“The UAE has been an active partner of Samoa in the field of development and energy cooperation, a notion epitomised by the UAE-Pacific Partnership fund, for which we are working closely together to achieve Samoa’s plan in meeting its 100 per cent renewable energy targets. We hope to build on these existing partnerships and explore the potential of further cooperation in fields of mutual interest.”
Mr Tuala Leaega Patrick Leota said: “It is our hope that innovative trade and investment promotion events such as Expo 2020 Dubai will keep consumers, buyers and investors informed and interested in the goods and services from Samoa and the Pacific.
“A successful Expo would complement Samoa’s efforts in achieving its long-term development goals which focus on unlocking opportunities in tourism, agriculture and fishery, digital economy and labour mobility. These sectors have potential transformational opportunities to boost economic growth, raise the standard of living and aid our pandemic recovery efforts.”
The ceremony concluded with a spectacular show that demonstrated Samoa’s illustrious indigenous culture. It featured traditional Samoan dancing and singing, performed by Samoans living in the UAE, as well as players from the Samoan Rugby Sevens team.
A graceful dance by women honoured ‘moana’ (the ocean) and its importance to Samoan culture. The performance continued with a stunning display of energy and action by the Rugby Sevens team, performing traditional dances known as ‘Fa’ataupati’ and ‘Siva Tau’, a Samoan war dance.
During the day, the Samoa Pavilion welcomed and honoured guests from the UAE delegation with flower garlands – a traditional Samoan greeting, and sign of hospitality and friendship.
Located in the Opportunity District, the Samoan traditional way of life, Fa’a Samoa, is at the heart of the Samoa Pavilion, demonstrating how tradition meets innovation by teaching visitors how the country is securing a sustainable future by nurturing its beautiful environment. The equatorial islands boast turquoise waters and fish-filled reefs while the interior is full of luscious tropical forests, breathtaking lava fields and cratered landscapes.
National and Honour Days at Expo 2020 Dubai are moments to celebrate each of Expo 2020’s 200-plus International Participants, shining a light on their culture and achievements and showcasing their pavilions and programming.
Running until 31 March 2022, Expo 2020 has invited visitors from across the planet to join the making of a new world in a six-month celebration of human creativity, innovation, progress and culture.