CANBERRA, Australia — March 24, 2026 — His Excellency Wesley W. Simina, President of the Federated States of Micronesia (FSM), today officially dedicated the Embassy of the Federated States of Micronesia in Canberra, marking a historic milestone in the trusted partnership between the FSM and Australia. The dedication took place during the President Simina’s High-Level Visit to Australia, the first visit in 29 years.

President Simina was joined by First Lady Ancelly Simina, Esmond B. Moses, Speaker of the FSM Congress and spouse Mrs. Aileen Moses, and accompanied by Secretary of Justice Leonito Bacalando Jr., Secretary of Resources and Development Elina P. Akinaga, the Acting Secretary of Foreign Affairs Ricky Cantero, and members of the official delegation.

The ceremony was also attended by senior representatives of the Australian Government, members of the diplomatic corps, and the Pacific community in Canberra, including former Australian Ambassadors to the FSM—Peter Stanford, Susan Cox, and Jo Cowley—as well as other distinguished officials and partners.

The dedication ceremony, held in the Australian capital, reflects the deepening ties between the two nations and underscores a shared commitment to strengthen diplomatic engagement, regional cooperation, and people-to-people connections.

In his remarks, President Simina paid respect to the Ngunnawal people as the Traditional Custodians of the land and expressed gratitude to the Government of Australia for its support in facilitating the establishment of the FSM Embassy and the accreditation of its ambassador.

“This moment represents not only the establishment of a physical presence, but a reaffirmation of our shared history, mutual respect, and the principle of reciprocity that underpins our diplomatic relations,” President Simina said.

The Government of the Federated States of Micronesia also expressed its appreciation for the presence of FSM citizens residing in Australia, members of the Pacific diplomatic community, friends of Micronesia, and former FSM Ambassadors, whose continued support reflects the strong and enduring bonds that unite the FSM with Australia and the wider Pacific region.

Chief of Protocol Mr. Jonathan Muir reflected on the journey the FSM-Australia partnership stating, “Australia established diplomatic relationship with Federated States of Micronesia in July 1987 and opened its embassy in Canberra in November 2024. Today’s dedication completes that circle and gives visible expression to that growing partnership.”

Mr. Muir also highlighted the significance of the Embassy’s establishment in advancing shared priorities and strengthening regional engagement.

“The Embassy’s presence here will deepen cooperation across our shared priorities, including regional connectivity, maritime security, climate change, and education. It will also strengthen FSM’s engagement with the Pacific community here in Canberra,” Mr. Muir said.

President Simina acknowledged the contributions of officials from both governments whose efforts made the Embassy a reality, as well as the FSM Congress for its support. He expressed confidence that the Embassy will serve as a vital platform for advancing cooperation and increasing Micronesia’s visibility in Australia and beyond. President Simina recognized that this milestone was guided under the leadership of H.E Jane Chigiyal, Ambassador of FSM Embassy in Australia, Deputy Chief of Mission Ms. Myjolynne Kim and staff.

The Embassy in Canberra stands as a symbol of friendship, partnership, and a shared vision for a stronger and more connected Pacific region.

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