Pago Pago, AMERICAN SAMOA — Samoa's Prime Minister Laaulialemalietoa Leuatea Polataivao Fosi Schmidt is visiting American Samoa this week as a special guest for the launch of the Le Vasa submarine cable with a historic agreement signing with Google, fostering stronger digital connectivity and collaboration between the two Samoas. The Prime Minister was welcomed by  Governor Pulaalii Nikolao Pula upon arrival.

The Prime Minister’s delegation includes the Minister of Communications and Information Technology Hon. Agaseata Tanuvasa Valelio Peto, Chief Executive Officer of M.C.I.T. Leasoiloafaleuplou Ronnie Aiolupotea, Chief Executive Officer of the Ministry of Prime Minister and Cabinet Agafili Tomaimanō Shem Leo, Acting Police Commissioner Leiātaua Samuelu Afamasaga, and Apulu Lance Polu.

The Prime Minister, Gov. Pulaali’i and their advisors will be holding discussions with Google officials.

BACKGROUND

The Le Vasa cable and forthcoming collaboration with Google was publicly announced by Governor Pulaali’i’s during his State of the Territory Address delivered on Monday, Jan. 12, 2026, at the opening of the 3rd Regular Session of the 39th Legislature of American Samoa. It was highlighted as one of his administration’s most important economic developments to help diversify the local economy.

Senate President Tuaolo Manaia Fruean, in his response to Gov. Pulaali’i’s on behalf of the Fono, pointed out that while ARPA funding is expected to cover $15 million of the costs for the critical Google cable installation project, the total project budget is $45 million.

He said this raises significant concerns about the remaining $30 million needed to complete the project, prompting Tuaolo to question from where the additional funds will come.