Diplomatic ties between Samoa and China takes on a more emotional sway this Friday with the opening of the Friendship Park on the seaward side of the Government Building.
The park sets up a special spot in the heart of town for the public to relax and enjoy the garden scenery while breathing in the cool clean ocean breeze.
The picturesque garden layout in quiet peaceful surroundings away from the hectic rush of township life is ideal for an undisturbed moment at any time of the day.
An evening stroll with the children to run around in some of the open grounds is a family outing that everyone will look forward to.
The opening formalities will start in the late afternoon with China’s Ambassador to Samoa HE Chao Xiaoliang and PM Fiame Naomi Mataafa giving keynote addresses.
The Friendship Park is China’s contribution to the Waterfront Beautification Project started by the previous Government of former Prime Minister Tuilaepa Sailele Malielegaoi in 2018.
The advent of the COVID pandemic and subsequent international border shutdown for Samoa delayed the work with the Chinese contracting workers arrival schedule disrupted by the restrictions.
The Waterfront Beautification project is designed to stretch along the coastal beach front from the Mulinu’u Peninsula across central Apia to Matautu-tai up to Vaiala Beach.
The New Zealand contribution to the project is the boulevard adjacent the new park on the western side Central Bank Building in front of the Town Clock roundabout out towards the seawall.
It also included a children’s playground further along the Mulinu’u side infront of the Tanoa Hotel.
An official opening treat for everyone after the formalities the Friendship Park opening is the live entertainments to follow and some shopping a the Night Market stands to top off the evening excitements.