The Tongan Advisory Council offers its condolences to the people of Samoa on the passing of the Head of State, His Highness Malietoa Tanumafili II. We also extend our deepest sympathies to all the families of the Sa-Malietoa and the descendants of Fe'epo. The illustrious history associated with the Malietoa title is revered in Samoa and famous throughout the Pacific. His sad passing has come at a time when the royal and chiefly houses of Tonga and Fiji have also lost great leaders, namely the late King of Tonga, Taufa'ahau Tupou IV and Ratu Sir Kamisese Mara of Fiji.

The people of Samoa and Tonga share a common history and ancestory. The connections are irrefutable. Our royal and chiefly families intermarried with each other maintaining two-way trade and exchange, which in turn, ensured the cross-pollination of our languages, customs and cultures. The Samoan and Tongan community abroad, particularly in New Zealand, are continuing this long-held tradition through social bonding, inter-marriage and close affiliation through community and other settings.

There is a saying in Tonga that is applied as reassurance for the future generations in that when a warrior falls, another will rise to take his place. Malietoa is one of the longest serving Heads of State in the world. He leaves behind a legacy of continuity, peace and stability for Samoa as an example for the rest of the Pacific, and the world. Tongan Advisory Council, 16/05/07.