08/04/2026
Our Spiritual Father and Leader, Reverend Semikueva Faatoafe pictured here with the Finance Minister, His Highness Tuimaleali'ifano Vaaletoa Sualauvi and Masiofo Faamauaili Leinafo, Japanese Ambassador to Samoa and reigning Miss Samoa.
【Messages from Ambassador Suzuki: Security and Peace in Samoa】
Talofa lava, everyone!
I am Ryotaro Suzuki, Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of Japan to Samoa.
Japan, as a distant island nation in the Northen hemisphere to the East, faces a security environment that may be quite different from what you experience here in Samoa. We are currently undertaking a significant review of our defense policy and engaging in extensive discussions to ensure our national security. This is because our geopolitical position, our relations with neighboring countries, and the current international situation present us with many complex challenges.
It's been almost a year and half since I arrived here in Samoa, and in my daily life here, I have come to deeply appreciate how precious and insightful the "peace" that you enjoy is for the world.
When we talk about your security environment, the first thing that comes to mind is the immense blessing of this vast Pacific Ocean. Samoa is geographically isolated from major conflict zones and regions of ongoing military tension. I believe this "distance" has been a significant factor, allowing you to lead peaceful lives for generations without being drawn into large-scale armed conflicts. While Japan also shares the commonality of being an island nation, our respective geopolitical circumstances are vastly different.
And, above all, the wellspring of peace in Samoa is none other than the spirit of "Fa'a Samoa". I wish to express my heartfelt respect for this traditional value system that is so deeply ingrained in your society. Your approach to valuing family (aiga), respecting community (nu'u) harmony, and seeking to resolve disputes through dialogue and mutual understanding, resonates deeply with what we Japanese call the spirit of "Wa" (harmony). However, what makes "Fa'a Samoa" truly unique and offers much for us to learn, is that it forms the very foundation of your national security. I am profoundly moved by the fact that your culture and traditions serve as a powerful shield for peace, rather than relying on military might.
The choice of your nation not to maintain a standing army is also noteworthy. This certainly does not mean that you are defenseless. Rather, it is testament to how your national security is maintained through your police force, long-standing trusted relationships with friendly nations like New Zealand and Australia, and regional cooperation through organizations like the Pacific Islands Forum (PIF). I deeply understand and respect your belief that true security lies not in weapons, but in trust and cooperation.
Of course, contemporary security does not refer solely to traditional military threats. The threat of climate change and economic vulnerabilities that you in Samoa face are also significant security challenges. In addressing these challenges, Japan has, for many years, walked alongside you through development aid, technical cooperation, and support for climate change countermeasures. We pledge to continue to stand by you, as a friend, and explore solutions together for the non-military issues you encounter.
The "peace" that Samoa enjoys is not merely a coincidence. It is an irreplaceable asset, nurtured and protected by your geographical conditions, and above all, by your unique culture and values embodied in "Fa'a Samoa," and your wise choice of non-militarization.
Japan deeply understands and respects the peaceful society that you in Samoa have carefully cultivated. We promise to continue to be a true friend to Samoa, supporting your efforts towards peace and prosperity, and further deepening the friendly relations between our two countries.
I sincerely pray that these beautiful islands of Samoa will continue to be blessed with peace and happiness for many years to come.
Fa'afetai tele lava.
