I have sent the following message of condolence to the Prime Minister
of Samoa on the death of the Hon Tofilau De Eti Alesana, the former
Prime Minister.
The Foreign Minister, Mr Downer, will represent Australia at the funeral
on Monday,
22 March 1999.
"I was greatly saddened to learn of the death this morning of
the Honourable Tofilau Dr Eti Alesana, the former Prime Minister of
Samoa and a widely respected elder statesman of the Pacific region.
His wise leadership of his country earned him both a very high regard
and affection from his people. He was a profoundly religious man,
and the courage and determination which characterised his leadership
of Samoa stayed with him to the end of his long battle with illness.
Tofilau's good judgement and advice were an important source
of stability also for the Pacific community. He was a good friend
of Australia and I will miss his effective contributions at the South
Pacific Forum.
His absence will be deeply felt amongst his own people and all those
in the Pacific who had dealings with him.
On behalf of the Australian Government and people I express my sympathy
to Tofilau's widow and family and to the people of Samoa.
Yours sincerely
John Howard"
21 March 1999