The Ambassador of Samoa to Belgium and the European Union, Fatumanava Dr. Pa’olelei Luteru, hosted a small reception in Samoa on Thursday 23 June 2016 for the medical students from Europe who are undertaking internships at the National Hospital of Samoa.  A total of 17 students were present at the reception held at the STA Fale.

During the last few years, there has been a significant increase in the number of medical students from Europe choosing Samoa as their destination for their overseas electives.  Most of the students are from the United Kingdom and Germany with a few from France and Estonia.    The duration of the internships in Samoa is usually of one to two months.

In his welcome remarks, Ambassador Fatumanava thanked the students for choosing Samoa as the destination for their medical internships.  He also reminded them of the importance of cultural understanding and tolerance especially in the present global environment.  Ambassador Fatumanava further expressed the hope that the students’ short stay was full of positive experiences and memories they will take back and treasured.

The Ambassador concluded by wishing the students well in their studies and look forward to their next visit to Samoa either with families or friends.

Also present at the reception were Peseta Noumea Simi, CEO of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade (MFAT), the CEO of the Ministry of the Prime Minister and Cabinet, Samoa immigration officials, staff members of MFAT, the National University of Samoa and the National Hospital of Samoa.