Pago Pago, AMERICAN SAMOA — The Pacific Islands Forum (PIF) delegation met this week with various American Samoa government leaders and non-profit organizations and will use the information to prepare a report, which they will present to the PIF Board of Directors on behalf of American Samoa in its bid for associate membership.

The discussions covered key topics such as technology and connectivity, people-centered development, resource-based economic development, and healthcare.

His Excellency Ratu William Toganivalu, the Fiji Roving Ambassador to Pacific Island Countries and Territories and Agencies of the Council of Regional Organizations of the Pacific, expressed gratitude to ASG and the people of American Samoa for their hospitality. He stated that the delegation would use the gathered information to prepare a report, which they will present to the PIF Board of Directors on behalf of American Samoa.

Mr. Tenuanua Nicole, the Governance Officer from PIF, expressed his gratitude for the extensive program, which included site visits, consultations, and presentations from different ASG departments and private sectors. He found these activities very helpful in covering the criteria set by PIF. Mr. Nicole noted that he has witnessed American Samoa’s willingness and determination to engage with other Pacific Islands through various collaborative projects, demonstrating the territory's strong integration with the Pacific region.

Lt. Governor La’apui Talauega Ale expressed appreciation for the visit,

"We extend our heartfelt gratitude to His Excellency Ratu William Toganivalu and Mr. Tenuanua Nicole for joining us here and contributing to our efforts to join the Pacific Islands Forum. Your insights and the exchange of information have been invaluable. We look forward to building a relationship that will benefit not only American Samoa but also our Pacific neighbors in the years ahead. Safe travels to the delegation as they return.”