| Press Statement Tom Casey, Deputy Spokesman Washington, DC May 14, 2007 Samoa: Death of Malietoa Tanumafili IIOn May 11, 2007, Samoan Head of State Malietoa Tanumafili II passed away in Apia, Samoa following a long illness. The United States extends its condolences to His Highness Malietoa's two sons and two daughters and the people of Samoa during this time of sorrow. His Highness Malietoa played an important and valued role in the history of his country. He was one of Samoa's founding fathers and served as Head of State since Samoa gained independence in 1962. He also led by example, working to promote democracy and prosperity in his country and throughout the Pacific. As Samoans mourn the loss of their beloved leader, the United States remains committed to maintaining the strong bilateral relationship cultivated through the partnership with His Highness and the Samoan Government. |
