By Renate Rivers

The new High Commissioner of Australia to Samoa, His Excellency Dr Stephen Henningham, was officially received by His Highness the Head of State Tui Atua Tupua Tamasese Efi at his residence in Tuaefu.

His Highness spoke of Australia as one of Samoa’s “main traditional development partners”, and noted the “immense contribution and assistance Australia has made towards the development objectives and aspirations of our country.”

This was restated by His Excellency Dr Henningham, who articulated Australia’s commitment to Samoa’s development and security through Partnership accords between both countries, not only on a bilateral level but through cooperation on regional issues with the Pacific Islands Forum and other bodies.

He said, “Samoa continues to play a leading part in support of the Regional Assistance Mission to the Solomon Islands (RAMSI)… because of its prominent role in the Pacific region, and its strong commitment to reform and progress, Samoa is highly regarded in the Pacific and in the wider international community.”

Samoa and Australia have enjoyed a formal diplomatic relationship since 1971, with a close partnership in development and closer familial ties which, according to His Highness Tui Atua, have mutually contributed to the development of both countries.

“This relationship and linkages remain strong to this day,” His Highness said.

Ambassador Henningham reiterated this with comments highlighting the “people-to-people” links that start with inter-governmental connections and filter down to community level.

“Australia enjoys a constructive and broad-ranging partnership with Samoa… Australians of Samoan heritage contribute strongly to Australia’s diversity and dynamism.”

The challenges of climate change and vulnerability to natural disasters is now a shared experience for both countries.

His Excellency pledged Australia’s commitment to continued assistance for post-tsunami reconstruction, and thanked the people of Samoa for their messages of sympathy and support after the flooding and cyclone that hit several Australian states in recent months.

Dr Henningham is a career diplomat, currently holding the position of Director, Fiji and Strongim Gavman Program Section.  He has authored several academic works on the history and politics of the Pacific region, and has extensive experience within the Department of Foreign Affairs.  He has served in Ho Chi Minh City, Bougainville, Port Moresby and Noumea.  His Excellency holds a Bachelor of Arts degree with honours in History and a PhD in South Asian Studies.  He is joined in residence by his wife Catherine Cregan.

The credentials ceremony took place on 9th Feb 2011.

*Pictured L-R: Ms Catherine Cregan, His Excellency Dr Stephen Henningham, His Highness Tui Atua Tupua Tamasese Efi, Masiofo Filifilia Tamasese

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Renate Rivers

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