The Independent State of Samoa and the Dominican Republic have formally established diplomatic relations with effect from 23 September 2021. The Joint Communiques were signed between H.E. Mr. Roberto Alvarez, Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Dominican Republic, and H.E. Fatumanava-o-Upolu III Dr. Paolelei Luteru, Permanent Representative of Samoa to the United Nations, at the Permanent Mission of the Dominican Republic in New York.

During the Signing Ceremony, it was noted that the establishment of diplomatic relations would not only build upon existing ties between the Small Island Developing States but open the path to greater cooperation and further strengthen relations between the two countries and peoples.

Samoa and the Dominican Republic have enjoyed cordial relations marked by friendship and cooperation, even in the absence of diplomatic relations as members of the Alliance of Small Island States (AOSIS), the Group of 77, and China, African Caribbean Pacific (ACP), the United Nations and other multinational organizations. Both countries prioritize work on tackling climate change, sustainable development, ocean issues, COVID 19 vaccine equity and economic recovery as well as a host of other priorities in the global arena.