SAMOA, October 23 - SAMOA CONSULTAE GENERAL AUCKLAND. 23rd October 2025.

[PRESS RELEASE]- Prime Minister Laaulialemalietoa Leuatea Polataivao Fosi Schmidt hosted the Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs of Israel Hon Sharren Miriam Haskel for bilateral discussions over dinner in the Samoa Consulate General in Mangere Auckland, Thursday night 23 October.

The visit to the Pacific by the Deputy Foreign Minister was to acknowledge and personally thank the ‘friends of Israel’ in the Pacific region for their support during these challenging times with the continuing situation in Gaza.

Prime Minister Laaulialemalietoa reaffirmed the shared values between the two countries of faith, culture, traditions and history which Israeli people remain committed to preserving.

Deputy Minister Haskell acknowledged with appreciation Samoa’s friendship and support of the Samoan people, and that the shared respect for the land of Israel forms a special bond between the two countries. The declaration of support for Israel remains firm and that Samoa is looking at potential representation in Israel.

The visa waiver between the two countries was highlighted as well as the opportunities for capacity building in Israel in the fields of agricultural research, innovation such as its drip irrigation system and advanced technological tools for greater agricultural production.

Prime Minister Laaulialemalietoa raised potential areas for Israeli assistance in tackling illicit drug trafficking and ways to address border security concerns.

As a gesture of goodwill, Prime Minister Laaulialemalietoa was invited to visit Israel in the not too distant future; likewise Deputy Foreign Minister Haskel was invited to attend the next Independence celebrations for Samoa.

MINISTRY OF FOREIGN AFFAIRS & TRADE -[Photos Contributed]