The primary duty of the Samoa Immigration Office is to ensure the country’s safety by preventing any illegal entry into our territory. The responsibility is particularly emphasized as the office prepares for the upcoming Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting (CHOGM).
The Chief Executive Officer of the Ministry of the Prime Minister and Cabinet (MPMC), Agafili Tomaimanō Shem Leo, stated that stringent measures and protocols have been established to monitor everyone entering Samoa, including all delegates of the meeting. The MPMC is working closely with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade to ensure compliance with immigration laws and regulations.
The protection of our international borders, including airports and seaports, has been a long-standing priority, with staff remaining vigilant and prepared. Agafili mentioned that the Samoa Immigration Office collaborates with the Customs and Revenue Department and the Ministry of Agriculture and Fisheries’ Biosecurity Division to ensure no issue will arise during the event.
Additionally, the MPMC aims to prevent any illegal entries due to delays in service provision. Samoa maintains communication with New Zealand, Australia, and Fiji to ensure smooth travel and migration operations during the CHOGM.
For all Heads of Government attending the meeting, Agafili highlighted that there are specific international protocols for their screening upon arrival, similar to those applied globally to all recognized leaders. He assured that there are enough well-prepared Immigration Officers to carry out due diligence and continue the normal processes for arrivals and departures during this busy period.
The Samoa Immigration Office normal services to the general public in Upolu and Savai’i continues from its headquarters in Apia and Office at the NPF Building at Salelologa.
Source: Savali Newspaper
Photo: Government of Samoa Facebook page
