The Bahamas Establishes Diplomatic Relations with Samoa On the Margins of CHOGM

Prime Ministers Philip E Davis of The Bahamas and Fiamē Naomi Mataʻafa of Samoa.

21st October, 2024

On the margins of the 2024 Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting (CHOGM), held under the theme “One Resilient Common Future: Transforming our Commonwealth,” the Commonwealth of The Bahamas and the Independent State of Samoa have formally established diplomatic relations.

The Governments of The Bahamas and Samoa, guided by mutual respect and a shared willingness to develop ties of friendship, signed a joint communiqué today. Both countries reaffirm their dedication to the principles enshrined in the United Nations Charter, the Commonwealth Charter, and the promotion of peace, security, national sovereignty, and non-interference in the internal affairs of other states.

Prime Minister the Hon Philip E Davis, representing The Bahamas, emphasised that this partnership is a testament to The Bahamas’ broader diplomatic strategy of fostering meaningful relations with nations that share common values. This new relationship will facilitate deeper cooperation across various sectors, including trade, tourism, cultural exchange, and climate resilience. Both nations look forward to working collaboratively in multilateral forums to address pressing global issues such as sustainable development and human rights.

Also present on behalf of The Bahamas was Foreign Minister the Hon Frederick A Mitchell and Director General Amb. Jerusa Ali.

Samoa was represented by Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Fiamē Naomi Mataʻafa, Permanent Representative of Samoa to the UN Fatumanava Dr Pa’olelei Luteru, and HE Francella Strictland, Samoa’s ambassador to Belgium.

The signing ceremony serves as a reminder of the significance of international diplomacy and the shared aspirations of all Commonwealth members for a resilient and peaceful global future.