CLOSING REMARKS by Hon. Valasi Luapitofanua To’omaga Selesele Minister of Health at the conclusion of the Chinese Medical Specialist Visit – Sataua, Savaií. – 1st March 2025;
I believe we have come to the conclusion of this important program and I would like to express my sincere gratitude to all those who have worked so hard to make this event happen especially the team of medical specialists from the government of the People’s Republic of China.
To the incredible team of Chinese medical specialist, thank you so much for the exceptional service you provide for our people today. Your expertise, compassion and unwavering dedication truly made a difference in our people’s lives.
You are not just skilled professionals, but also kind and supportive individuals who shared your experience and skills with our local staff. I am forever grateful for your commitment to this program.
Our prayer, is for God to let the rain of His blessings fall upon you all, and may you all have a servant heart to serve the health of those who direly want to receive.
Excellency Fei Mingxing, the Ambassador of Peoples Republic of China to Samoa, and medical specialist team, people of Sataua has prepared a generous gift as a token of appreciation for your kind service rendered for us.
This is what we call in Samoa “nifo ‘oti’’. Nifo’ oti or bush knife is a traditional Samoan weapon that was used in late 1800s as war weapon and is now often use in Samoan dancing.
Both sides of the weapon are made to be sharped and lethat and is what aided the Samoans in battle.
I am pleased to present this nifo oti on behalf of Sataua people as a gift to remind your good self. Excellency Fei Mingxing and our Medical Specialists visiting team from China, the importance of our calling to serve the health of our people. Serving the health of our people is our ongoing battle. The sharp edges of the nifo oti, symbolizes the need for our health professionals to be vigilant and continue to upgrade specialized skills to respond to health demands of our people.
In closing I would like to reiterate our sincere thanks to the government of the People’s Republic of China for your assistance, our medical specialists visiting team not only for your remarkable special medical services, but also with the compassion and care you bring to everyone you have seen today.
We are incredibly to have you here, and we thank you again from the bottom of our hearts for all you have done.
Wishing you safe travels back and God bless.
Soifua ma ia manuia.
Photo by the Government of Samoa (Litia Taateo-Aviata)
