Manila, Philippines – Earlier this month, on November 7th, 2024, in a significant step to further enhance the relationship between the Federated States of Micronesia (FSM) and the Republic of the Philippines, H.E. John Fritz, the newly appointed Ambassador of the Federated States of Micronesia to the Philippines, presented his credentials to His Excellency Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr., President of the Republic of the Philippines, during an official ceremony held at the Malacañang Palace.
Ambassador Fritz conveyed the FSM’s commitment to strengthening the long-standing bonds of friendship and cooperation with the Philippines. Highlighting shared values and mutual interests, he also affirmed the FSM’s aim to establish a diplomatic mission in Manila in the near future, further solidifying diplomatic and economic relations between the two nations.
In addition to presenting his credentials, Ambassador Fritz held productive meetings with key officials in the Philippine government. These included the Secretary of the Department of Foreign Affairs, the Secretary of the Department of Migrant Workers, and the Secretary of the Department of Agriculture, who formerly served as the Honorary Consul of the FSM to the Philippines. 
Discussions covered a range of collaborative priorities, including the formalization of a Labor Mobility Agreement between the FSM and the Philippines. This agreement is expected to facilitate enhanced employment opportunities and the movement of skilled workers between the two countries.
Ambassador Fritz also acknowledged the contributions of the Filipino community in the FSM, whose vibrant presence has enriched FSM society and fostered cultural bonds. He praised the Philippines’ active role in supporting regional stability and prosperity across the Pacific and Asia, underscoring the FSM’s commitment to deepening this partnership.
The FSM and the Philippines look forward to expanding their collaboration in labor, capacity building, agriculture, and environmental resilience, with both sides optimistic about future endeavors through existing agreements and regional platforms. Ambassador Fritz’s appointment reflects the FSM’s dedication to building strong partnerships within the Asia-Pacific region, aligned with the FSM’s broader foreign policy objectives.
Ambassador John Fritz was accompanied by his wife, Momoe Fritz, the Secretary of Justice, the Honorable Leonito Bacalando Jr., Assistant Secretary for Infrastructure, Mr. Dickson Wichep, Chief of Immigration, Mr. Apiner Hadley, Deputy Assistant Secretary for Asia Affairs, Mr. Sohses Kalvin Ehmes, Emloyment Service Office, Mr. Dickson David, and the FSM Embassy in Tokyo’s Social and Political Officer, Ms. Yoriko Nanpei. Profound appreciation to the FSM Honorary Consul in Manila, Mr. Floyd Tiu-Laurel, and his team for the wonderful hospitality arrangements and support provided to the FSM delegation while in the Republic of the Philippines.
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