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SALT LAKE CITY -- The Head of State of Samoa, His Highness Tui Atua Tupua Tamasese Efi, is in Utah this week. He's here by invitation from President Dieter F. Uchtdorf who visited Samoa following the tsunami there two years ago.
His Royal Highness is on a tour of the LDS Church History Museum. His own family history now has ties to Utah.
"I did meet some of my family yesterday at brunch. Like the Mormons, we are very family oriented and Sunday brunch is very special," he said.
The earthquake and tsunami waves that followed on September 29, 2009 brought the worst destruction in their islands' history. His Highness says the country is rebuilding.
We will always be grateful to the way people responded from all over the world," His Highness said.
His Highness says his country is especially grateful for the immediate response from Utah.
"I want to learn the source of love and loving that motivates the community to do so much not only amongst, themselves but all over the world."
He was especially moved by his tour of Welfare Square following the 10th anniversary of the 9/11 terrorist attacks.
"Being exposed to that one day and going to the humanitarian center the next day had a very real connection for me." His Highness will meet with the Samoan community during a fiafia celebration tomorrow night at UVU. He will also speak at BYU and the University of Utah.
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