Congressman Faleomavaega today announced that the Honorable Nancy Pelosi, Speaker of the House has requested him to officially represent the U.S. House of Representatives at the funeral ceremonies for his His Highness Malietoa Tanumafili II in Apia, Samoa.
 
In a letter of condolence to Samoa’s Honorable Prime Minister Tuilaepa Sailele Malielegaoi, Speaker Nancy Pelosi wrote:

His Excellency Tuilaepa Sailele Malielegaoi
Prime Minister
Government of Samoa
Apia, Samoa

Dear Mr. Prime Minister:

On behalf of the Members of the House of Representatives, I want to convey our deepest sympathy to the people of Samoa on the recent passing of His Highness Malietoa Tanumafili II.  I have asked Congressman Eni Faleomavaega to represent the House of Representatives at His Highness’ funeral and to express our condolences.

His Highness Malietoa, the oldest serving national leader in the world, was a distinguished statesman whose legacy will forever remain in the hearts of the Samoan people and in the memory of the rest of the world.  Samoa has been blessed for the past 45 years with one of the most noble and humble dignitaries in the Pacific.  In his memory, we offer our sympathy and prayers to comfort a mourning nation and family during this difficult time.

Best regards,

Nancy Pelosi
Speaker of the House

“I am honored and thankful to be chosen by House Speaker Pelosi, the third most powerful leader in the United States government, to represent the United States House of Representatives at His Highness’ funeral. This is a sign of trust, respect and support the United States House of Representatives is showing for Pacific island governments and people, which include Samoans,” Faleomavaega concluded.