Samoa first hosted the 18th Pacific Immigration Directors Conference, (PIDC) in 2015.
From there the wheels went into motion for the PIDC to relocate to Apia from its Suva Fiji location.
That is now a reality with the dedication of the new PIDC Secretariat in Apia located on the 3rd floor of the Development Bank building today to commemorate the relocation coupled with Samoa again hosting the 20th annual PIDC meeting in Apia this week.
The PIDC’s return to Apia on a permanent basis also signifies a new era in regional border security and control.
“And it’s a milestone,” attested Samoa’s Immigration Minister and Prime Minister Tuilaepa Lupesoliai Sailele Malielegaoi.
By hosting the P.I.D.C headquarters it reaffirms Samoa’s commitment to fostering multilateral cooperation within the members” added Prime Minister Tuilaepa.
“The government and the people of Samoa welcome the P.I.D.C to our shores and is evident by the swift execution of the necessary documents to facilitate a smooth transition from Suva to Apia,” continued the Prime Minister.
“The relocation signifies the values of the PIDC family and in recognition of the role that PIDC plays in bringing together states and territories of the Pacific towards the common interest of protecting our borders.”
One the of main characters leading with facilitating the relocation is the Chief Executive Officer with the Ministry of Prime Minister and Cabinet Agafili Tomaimano Shem Leo.
Elaborated Agafili; “With the increase of illegal activities relating to people movement as well as drugs and arms smuggling, there is an imperative need for immigration authorities in the region to engage to manage the Pacific gateways to ensure the safety of borders, thereby contributing to broader regional objective.”
“The event this week in Apia marks a significant chapter in the organization’s short history and the culmination of a journey that we value and respect.
“It also marks a new journey as we sail on the va’a name PIDC together into unchartered waters.”
Photo by Government of Samoa. PIDC conference in Apia