APIA: The Head of State of Samoa, Tui Atua Tupua Tamasese Ta'isi Efi, has sent a message of condolence to New Zealand in the wake of the Christchurch earthquake.
The letter, addressed to Governor General Sir Anand Satyanand, mentions that Tupua had to gain composure before penning the letter.
"In recovering composure I am reminded of the need to convey to your Excellency my official condolence," he said.
Tupua was en route to New Zealand when the earthquake struck. He was attending Waitkato University as a keynote speaker at a memorial symposium in honour of the late Professor James Ritchie last Wednesday.
"On arrival at the airport we were told about the earthquake," he said.
"And in our transport from Auckland to Waikato we watched early television reports on its immediate effects.
"The last few days have been a time of reflection, meditation and prayer as I, family and friends watch, hear and read of the tragedy from television, radio and newspaper reports."
Tupua has returned to Samoa, where the general election is to be held this Friday.
Alex Perrottet
