KOROR, Palau — August 30, 2026 — His Excellency Wesley W. Simina, President of the Federated States of Micronesia, met with His Excellency Surangel S. Whipps Jr., President of the Republic of Palau, ahead of the Pacific Islands Forum Leaders Meeting (PIFLM). President Simina was joined by the Honorable Stevenson A. Joseph, Governor of Pohnpei State, in his capacity as Chair of the Micronesian Islands Forum (MIF).

The leaders emphasized the importance of a strong and unified Pacific voice in ensuring that the PIF Leaders Meeting remains focused on Pacific issues that matter to Pacific peoples. Their discussions centered on advancing shared regional priorities and engaging development partners in ways that respond to the needs and aspirations of Pacific communities.

Discussions also covered preparations for Pre-COP and the importance of ensuring that this year’s PIF Leaders Meeting delivers a strong Climate Declaration ahead of COP31. The leaders exchanged views on ocean management, the ocean-climate nexus, and the need to mobilize climate-resilient investment that delivers practical and lasting benefits to Pacific communities.

During the meeting, the Honorable Ricky Cantero, representing the FSM, formally handed over the FSM Government’s $200,000 contribution to the Government of Palau as the MIF Secretariat. The contribution, which was announced at the 28th MIF, will support the hiring of an MIF Secretary-General to oversee the work of the Secretariat and strengthen coordination among Micronesian governments.

The meeting reaffirmed the close relationship between the FSM and Palau and their shared commitment to strengthening Micronesian cooperation while advancing the collective interests of the wider Pacific region.

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