WPRFM Council Meeting Ceremony in American Samoa

Pago Pago, AMERICAN SAMOA — The Western Pacific Regional Fishery Management Council commenced its June 9– 11 meeting in American Samoa with a culturally significant ‘ava ceremony held at the Su’iga’ula o le Atuvasa Fale Samoa. The ceremony was graciously hosted by the Office of Samoan Affairs, honoring the partnership between the Council and the Territory. Representing the American Samoa Government, Lt Governor Pulumata‘ala Ae Ae Jr. attended and briefly delivered welcoming remarks to Council members and Executive Director Seuta‘atia Kitty Simonds, acknowledging their continued commitment to the stewardship of Pacific fisheries. Pulumata‘ala shared the importance of grounding regional decision‐making in the traditions and values of the Samoan people, making the ‘ava ceremony a fitting opening to the week’s deliberations. Following the cultural proceedings, the official opening session convened at the Tauese P. F. Sunia Ocean Center, led by Council Chairperson Nathan Ilaoa, Director of the Department of Marine and Wildlife Resources. The meeting began with formal introductions and opening protocol. Special remarks were delivered by Gov. Pulaali’i Nikolao Pula, who noted the critical moment facing American Samoa’s fisheries. Section: Local News Tags: Western Pacific Regional Fishery Management Council
2026-06-22 17:23:52