Official welcome event focuses on increased participation despite King Charles’ absence

Samoa’s Prime Minister delivered her address at the Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting (CHOGM) state reception, calling for unity and collaboration.

She emphasised the importance of partnership between governments, communities, and nations, stating,

“Innovation has thrived, and the boldness in every voice for sustainable solutions is loud and clear.

“It is through collaboration between governments, communities, and nations that we can harness our collective power to effect real change.

“Together, we can share knowledge, resources, and best practices, ensuring that no one is left behind.”

Half of the tables at the banquet were empty. Photo/Ala Vailala

She also underscored the urgency of climate action, a dominant theme in this year’s CHOGM and touched on the current extremely rainy weather on the island.

“The changing weather patterns that you see are normal for this part of the year. The swells and ebbing tides remind us of the seasonality of climate change that cannot always be predicted.

“The oceans will yield prosperity, but it faces unprecedented threats from climate change, overfishing, and pollution. We must safeguard this invaluable resource for future generations.”

The banquet, held at the FIFA Football Federation Sāmoa Hall in Apia saw the gathering of international leaders and dignitaries from the likes of the Ngwenyama (King) of Eswatini, Mswati III and UK Prime Minister, Keir Starmer.

Mswati III, Ngwenyama (King) of Eswatini and head of the Swazi royal family (third from left) Photo/Ala Vailala.

However, nearly half the tables at the lavish state dinner were unoccupied, a drastic contrast to the grand setting, with notable absences including a number of key Commonwealth participants as well as King Charles III.

CHOGM, a biennial meeting that brings together leaders from the 56 member states of the Commonwealth, was first held in 1971 and is a key platform for discussing issues between the countries.

This year’s meeting is historic as it’s the first time the Pacific region has hosted the event.

CHOGM 2024 will also determine who the incoming Secretary General will be following the end of Patricia Scotland’s tenure.

The opening ceremony for CHOGM was held on Friday morning.

Watch below, reel from the CHOGM state reception