PALIKIR, Pohnpei — November 3, 2026 — Today, we proudly celebrated the 40th anniversary of our nation’s independence with a flag-raising ceremony at the President’s Office in Palikir, honoring four decades of sovereignty, unity, and progress under the theme, “Across All Micronesia: Born of Four, the Choice of One.”
The milestone celebration brought together national and state leaders, traditional leaders, diplomatic partners, government officials, and members of the public to honor our shared journey since independence on November 3, 1986.
The ceremony opened with a cultural procession featuring four children representing Yap, Chuuk, Pohnpei, and Kosrae in traditional attire, celebrating the distinct cultural identities of our four states. This was followed by a full honor guard, the ceremonial raising of the FSM flag, and the FSM National Anthem performed by students of Ohmine Elementary School. A 40-gun salute was rendered in honor of the nation’s 40th anniversary of independence and nationhood.
The Honorable Esmond B. Moses, Speaker of the FSM Congress, delivered welcoming remarks recognizing the significance of this national milestone.
In his Independence Day address, His Excellency Wesley W. Simina, President of the FSM, reflected on our journey toward self-determination and paid tribute to the generations of Micronesians who laid the foundation for our sovereign nation.
Reflecting on the historic decision that united our four states, President Simina recalled that “we chose to walk it together, under one flag, as the Federated States of Micronesia.” His message underscored the spirit of the theme and the shared commitment to nationhood that has guided our federation for four decades.
President Simina highlighted achievements over the past 40 years, including the development of national institutions, diplomatic relations, infrastructure, education, healthcare, transportation, and digital connectivity.
“Forty years later, we stand here with the benefit of four decades of experience and four decades of work by generations of Micronesians who believed that this country was worth building,” he stated.
Looking ahead, President Simina emphasized the continued responsibility to strengthen public services, improve accountability, preserve our cultural identity, and ensure that our progress benefits future generations.
In a symbolic tribute to our shared heritage and future, President Simina, Vice President Aren B. Palik, Speaker Esmond B. Moses, and Pohnpei State Governor Stevenson A. Joseph each planted a coconut tree. The four trees symbolize both the four states of our federation and four decades of independence, reflecting the unity and resilience that have sustained our nation. As President Simina reflected in his address, “I see four states with distinct identities and traditions, choosing to share one national future.” Known throughout Micronesia as the Tree of Life, the coconut tree symbolizes sustenance, resilience, and growth, serving as a living reminder of our shared heritage and commitment to nurturing the nation for generations to come.
Following the tree planting, the four leaders jointly unveiled a commemorative dedication plaque, followed by the unveiling of a second plaque by President Simina.
As we celebrate this milestone, we honor the contributions of generations past and reaffirm our shared commitment to building a stronger, more united, and prosperous Federated States of Micronesia for generations to come.
Born of Four, the Choice of One. Happy FSM Independence Day!
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