PALIKIR, Pohnpei — January 16, 2026 — His Excellency Wesley W. Simina, President of the Federated States of Micronesia (FSM) on January 8, 2026, welcomed a high-level Parliamentary Delegation from the House of Councilors of the National Diet of Japan, led by Mr. Toshiharu Furukawa accompanied by His Excellency Nobuo Kagomiya, Ambassador of Japan to the FSM, during a courtesy visit to the Office of the President. The visit reaffirmed the deep and enduring partnership between the FSM and Japan, founded on mutual respect, shared values, and long-standing cooperation.
President Simina expressed gratitude for Japan’s continued engagement and support, highlighting recent cooperation through the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA), including the dispatch of a survey team at the FSM Government’s request and discussions on the possible provision of a vessel to enhance national connectivity. He noted that the visit marks Japan’s second Official Development Assistance (ODA)–related mission since the last engagement, underscoring Japan’s strong and sustained commitment to FSM’s development priorities.
The President emphasized that Japan and the FSM share common values and priorities, including peace, security, and sustainable development. He conveyed appreciation for Japan’s understanding of the FSM’s priorities and reaffirmed the FSM Government’s commitment to further strengthening bilateral relations and working closely with Japanese agencies and stakeholders.
Mr. Toshiharu Furukawa expressed appreciation for the warm welcome extended by the FSM Government and reaffirmed Japan’s commitment to its longstanding partnership with the FSM. Mr. Furukawa further emphasized Japan’s continued support for FSM’s development priorities through ODA, including cooperation in infrastructure, maritime transportation, human resource development, and climate resilience. He also acknowledged FSM’s strategic importance in the Pacific region and reiterated Japan’s commitment to promoting sustainable development, regional stability, and a shared vision for a Free and Open Indo-Pacific.
The Honorable Aren B. Palik, Vice President of the FSM, also expressed appreciation for the delegation’s visit and for Japan’s willingness to listen to the FSM’s priorities, conveying hope for continued assistance and expanded collaboration in areas that directly benefit the people of the FSM.
The Office of the President welcomed the visit as a meaningful opportunity to strengthen dialogue, deepen cooperation, and advance initiatives that deliver tangible benefits to the people of the FSM, reflecting a shared vision for continued partnership and shared prosperity.
