Pago Pago, AMERICAN SAMOA — Governor Pulaali'i Nikolao Pula and Lt. Governor Pupulatala Ae Ae Jr. were invited to the Dept. of Treasury’s meet and greet at the Lee Auditorium Friday, March 07 so that Treasury management and staff had an opportunity to meet with government leaders to hear the administration’s vision and future objectives.

The governor in his special remarks thanked the Treasurer for inviting him to this special occasion, "It is a great honor to stand here today because the Treasury is one of the most important departments, because the Treasury provides resources for the government. I would like to acknowledge the Treasurer for his leadership. Despite the current financial challenges faced by the government, he remains steadfast in his commitment, actively seeking opportunities to serve our people with faith and integrity."

The Governor emphasized that one of the most significant challenges faced by both the administration and the Treasury Department is ensuring that payroll, which occurs biweekly, is met. He commended the Treasurer and his department for their efforts in consistently maintaining payroll, ensuring that our employees are paid and able to support their families.

Governor Pulaali'i underlined one of the pillars of the administration, "Honest governance is a principle we aim to instill within our government. While it may seem straightforward, it is, in fact, a challenging endeavor. I firmly believe that all individuals working in government should uphold honesty, possess strong character, and demonstrate integrity."

Governor Pulaali'i concluded by stating, "God bless the Treasurer, the management, and the staff. I recognize the pressures, stresses, and competing interests from various departments within our government. However, I firmly believe that if we remain humble, uphold strong character, serve with honesty and integrity, and, most importantly, maintain faith and belief in God, our service to American Samoa will be impactful and successful."

Lieutenant Governor Pulumataala offered a brief word of encouragement saying, "I would like to add on the gratitude expressed by the Honorable Governor. This is indeed a joyful occasion, and I extend my appreciation to the Treasurer for organizing this event, celebrating all of you, the employees who dedicate yourselves to the hard work. Thank you to each of you. The future of our island lies in the hands of our children, so I urge you to work with honesty, collaborate with one another, and maintain faith in God, so that our children may grow up in a healthy and prosperous environment."

Treasurer Donald 0. Kruse expressed his sincere gratitude to the Governor and Lieutenant Governor for selecting him to serve in this crucial role within the government. He also extended his heartfelt thanks to the staff of the Treasury Department for their warm welcome since day one. "I would like to thank my staff, including the Assistant Director, Deputies, Managers, Chief Accountant, and all team members. I do not carry out the work alone, it is each of you who puts in the hard work. I pray that God continues to bless all of you for your dedication and efforts every day. I encourage you all to uphold the principle of honest governance, as emphasized by the Honorable Governor, and always place God at the forefront of your service."

The event concluded with refreshments generously provided by the Treasurer and his family, lovingly prepared and baked by She Bakes Too.