Samoa and China have signed an agreement opening the way for direct flights between the two countries.
A beach in Savai'i, Samoa Photo: RNZI
The Samoa Observer reports an air service agreement was signed on Monday by Samoa's Minister of Works, Transport and Infrastructure, and China's Ambassador to Samoa.
The paper reports the deal opens the door for any carrier interested in servicing the route between Beijing and Samoa's Faleolo Airport.
The minister Papali'itele Niko Lee Hang said the agreement signified the bond between the two countries.
He said it would have a domino effect on aviation, tourism and trade.
The Chinese Ambassador Wang Xuefeng said it was the beginning of co-operation in the field of air services.
He said Samoa was a beautiful country with friendly people and it would be easy for Chinese tourists to visit.