PARIS, France — April 1, 2026 — The Federated States of Micronesia strengthened its partnership with UNESCO as H.E. Ambassador Akillino H. Susaia presented his credentials to Director-General Khaled El-Enany during a formal ceremony at UNESCO Headquarters on March 16, 2026.
The presentation marks the official commencement of Ambassador Susaia’s tenure as Permanent Representative of the Federated States of Micronesia to UNESCO.
During their discussions, Ambassador Susaia reaffirmed the FSM’s commitment to UNESCO’s priorities, including the protection of tangible and intangible cultural heritage, the promotion of inclusive and sustainable societies, and the advancement of quality education. He also sought UNESCO’s support in safeguarding the FSM’s cultural landscapes, strengthening scientific cooperation, and ensuring that future generations inherit a resilient and vibrant Federated States of Micronesia. He emphasized the importance of multilateral cooperation and knowledge-sharing in addressing shared challenges faced by Small Island Developing States (SIDS).
Ambassador Susaia further underscored the importance of strengthening UNESCO’s presence in the North Pacific through the United Nations Multi-Country Office in the FSM and extended an invitation to Director-General El-Enany to visit the Federated States of Micronesia.
Director-General El-Enany welcomed Ambassador Susaia and highlighted the value of the FSM’s perspectives within UNESCO, as well as the leadership that small island nations bring to cultural preservation and climate adaptation. He expressed UNESCO’s commitment to deepening collaboration with the FSM on initiatives that safeguard heritage, advance science for sustainable development, and expand inclusive education.
Discussions also focused on advancing the designation and protection of the Nan-Madol cultural heritage site, including efforts toward its removal from the List of World Heritage in Danger, as well as the urgent need for a dedicated program or site manager.
Both sides further underscored the importance of collaboration with national commissions and partners, including knowledge exchange through UNESCO participation programs and partnerships with other SIDS.
Ambassador Susaia’s accreditation enables the Federated States of Micronesia to strengthen coordination and engage fully in UNESCO’s governing bodies, technical programs, and partnerships. Priority areas for immediate collaboration include support through the UNESCO Participation Programme in areas such as management of the Nan Madol site; environment and climate change adaptation; management of local water resources; waste management; capacity and human resource development; and community-led heritage documentation initiatives across the nation, among other areas.
The presentation ceremony reflects continued diplomatic engagement between the Federated States of Micronesia and UNESCO, as both sides seek practical ways to translate global commitments into local action. The FSM joins other Pacific Island countries in leveraging UNESCO’s expertise to protect cultural diversity, build scientific capacity, and foster resilient communities in a changing world.
###
Photo by the UNESCO Director-Generals office.
