April 22, 2025 — Governor Pulaalii Nikolao Pula today [April 17, 2025] issued a statement of strong support and appreciation following President Donald J. Trump’s Executive Order amending the Pacific Remote Islands Marine National Monument to allow commercial fishing between 50 and 200 nautical miles.

The decision restores access to historic U.S. fishing grounds in the central Pacific—areas critical to the continued operation of the American Samoa-based U.S.-flagged purse seine fleet and vital to the economic security of the Territory.

“Today is a monumental day for the people of American Samoa,” said Governor Pula. “On the 125th anniversary of the Deed of Cession, when our forefathers chose to join the American family; President Trump has reaffirmed that partnership by honoring his commitment to support American industry and stand with small, remote communities like ours.”

Read the full story at Samoa News