LELU, Kosrae – August 18, 2025 – The Federated States of Micronesia (FSM) marked a historic milestone in its digital development journey with the successful landing of the East Micronesia Cable (EMC) in Kosrae State. The event was attended by The Honorable Aren B. Palik, Vice President of the FSM; The Honorable Tulensa K. Palik, Governor of Kosrae; members of the FSM Congress; members of the Kosrae State Legislature; and municipal leaders from across Kosrae. They were joined by representatives from key development partners—Australia, the United States, and Japan.
This momentous occasion signifies the completion of submarine fiber optic cable landings in all the four FSM states, a major achievement in the nation’s ongoing efforts to enhance connectivity and foster inclusive development.
The EMC is a transformative project valued at approximately USD $90 million, jointly funded by the governments of Australia, the United States, and Japan. It aims to deliver faster, more reliable, and affordable internet connectivity to the people of FSM, Kiribati, and Nauru—replacing the current dependence on slower and costlier satellite services. Spanning approximately 2,250 kilometers from Tarawa to Pohnpei, the EMC will connect to the existing HANTRU-1 cable, which links Pohnpei to Guam.
Once operational—expected by late 2025—the EMC will benefit up to 100,000 people across the three Pacific nations, unlocking new opportunities in education, healthcare, business, and governance.
During the ceremony, Governor Palik welcomed guests and emphasized the importance of digital infrastructure in Kosrae’s development. Development partners reaffirmed their commitment to supporting FSM’s progress. In his keynote address, Vice President Palik highlighted the transformative power of technology, stating that “technology is the future,” and warned that failure to embrace it could leave FSM behind in the rapidly evolving digital age.
The government of the FSM expresses its deep appreciation to its development partners for their continued support and collaboration in building a more connected and resilient Pacific.
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