TOFOL, Kosrae — February 17, 2026 — The Fourth Chief Executive Council (CEC) officially opened in Kosrae with His Excellency Wesley W. Simina, President of the Federated States of Micronesia (FSM), joining the Honorable Tulensa W. Palik, Governor of Kosrae State in welcoming state leaders and delegations from across the Federated States of Micronesia.

The ceremony began with an opening prayer, setting a respectful and reflective tone for the gathering. The presentation and raising of the national and state flags followed, formally marking the start of the Council session.

Governor Palik delivered welcoming remarks, highlighting Kosrae’s pride in hosting the CEC and reaffirming the importance of unity and collaboration among the states. President Simina expressed appreciation to the Government and people of Kosrae for their warm hospitality. Fellow governors also offered remarks, demonstrating their active engagement and shared commitment to advancing practical, coordinated solutions through the CEC.

Reconvening since their last meeting in Chuuk, leaders emphasized a collective sense of urgency in addressing key national priorities.

Key discussions this week include:

• Population and Diaspora: With population on the decline throughout the FSM, leaders will examine strategies to retain citizens and create meaningful incentives for their return.
• Education and Workforce Development: Reforms are underway to better align education and training systems with labor market demands, recognizing that citizens are the primary drivers of development.
• Trade, Investment, and Financing: The Council will review investment frameworks and explore blended financing approaches with development partners and private investors to ensure sustainable, nationally aligned growth.
• Seabed Resources: Leaders will consider the Operationalization Framework for the FSM Seabed Resources Authority, reaffirming alignment with the precautionary approach upheld by the International Seabed Authority and a commitment to the highest environmental standards.
• Infrastructure Implementation: Members will address project delays and coordination challenges to strengthen delivery across sectors and jurisdictions.

“This week is not merely an opportunity to deliberate. It is an opportunity to commit,” President Simina said, calling for clear, actionable outcomes from the session.

The Fourth Chief Executive Council continues throughout the week in Kosrae State.

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