On Thursday, King Charles and Queen Camilla were warmly welcomed with a traditional Samoan ceremony as they continued their official visit to the island nation.
The royal couple made a striking appearance in coordinating white outfits at the National University of Samoa. Queen Camilla looked elegant in a white tunic and palazzo trousers by Anna Valentine, paired with off-white flats, while King Charles sported a white bush jacket adorned with blue traditional Samoan designs on the sleeves, matching white trousers, and lace-up shoes.
The event featured an ‘ava ceremony, a significant Samoan tradition that honors leaders with a special drink made from the powdered roots of the ‘ava plant.
During the ceremony, King Charles received the bowl of ‘ava, tipping a small amount on the ground in accordance with custom, and offering the blessing, “May God bless this ‘ava” and “la manuia,” meaning “be prosperous.” The Head of State, Le Afioga ia Tuimaleali’ifano Va’aleto’a Sualauvi II, presided over the event.
The royals were also presented with traditional gifts, known as the sua faatamalii, as a gesture of gratitude for their presence. This ceremony was just one of many events planned for their four-day visit to Samoa, marking King Charles’ first official trip to the country.
The visit comes ahead of the Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting (CHOGM), which the King will preside over, where leaders will discuss topics including the royal legacy and climate change action.
In a statement, the palace emphasized the significance of the visit, saying, “Their Majesties’ State Visit to Samoa will celebrate the warm bilateral relationship between the two countries, which has been further strengthened by Samoa’s hosting of CHOGM 2024.”
Charles and Camilla expressed their excitement for the trip on social media, saying they “couldn’t wait” to experience the warmth of the Samoan people. Upon their arrival, Charles was greeted with a rendition of “God Save the King” and honored with the title of high chief.
This visit follows their six-day tour of Australia, where they were met with enthusiastic crowds.
