New York City, September 26, 2024 – In a historic moment for the Federated States of Micronesia (FSM), His Excellency President Wesley W. Simina addressed the 79th Session of the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) on September 26th, 2024. The President’s remarks, focusing on urgent global issues such as climate change, ocean conservation, and international security, underscored the FSM’s role in promoting peace, sustainability, and collective action within the global community.

FSM’s own Ambassador Lippwe Presides over General Assembly during President Simina’s Address:

In a notable turn of events, President Simina’s address was presided over by FSM’s Permanent Representative to the United Nations, His Excellency Ambassador Jeemer Lippwe. Ambassador Lippwe’s role in chairing the session was a result of the FSM’s election as one of the Vice Presidents of the General Assembly earlier this year, further highlighting the country’s growing presence and leadership on the global stage.

Kamorale to the World:

Opening his address, President Simina shared a message of unity, rooted in the FSM’s national ethos of “Kamorale,” a national greeting that blends the diverse languages of the FSM’s states.

“Kamorale represents the spirit of unity and solidarity that lies at the heart of my country and people. And that same spirit is equally important in the context of multilateralism here at the United Nations. In a world where global challenges require collective action, Kamorale reminds us that our strength and solutions come from our ability to come together.” he stated.

Addressing the Climate Crisis: “Time is Running Out”:

President Simina began by addressing the existential threat posed by climate change to small island nations like the FSM. “Every degree, every inch of sea-level rise, and every delay matters,” he said, highlighting the severe impacts already being felt, including an ongoing drought. The FSM has long been at the forefront of climate advocacy, and the President’s remarks echoed the urgency of immediate action.

He pointed to the 1.5°C temperature limit outlined in the Paris Agreement, stressing, “The 1.5 degrees goal is the safety limit for our small islands. Beyond that lies a danger zone with deadly heat, food and water system disruption, and the drowning of low-lying islands.” President Simina called for prioritizing the reduction of non-CO2 pollutants such as methane, which can have immediate cooling effects, and announced the FSM’s endorsement of the Fossil Fuel Nonproliferation Treaty Initiative.

Oceans and Sea-Level Rise: Protecting Maritime Zones and Sovereignty:

President Simina brought attention to the deteriorating health of the oceans and the threat of sea-level rise, a pressing concern for the FSM. He commended the UN for hosting a high-level meeting on sea-level rise and reaffirmed the FSM’s stance on statehood and sovereignty amid rising waters. “Sea-level rise poses a significant threat to our livelihoods and security, but it does not jeopardize our sovereignty or maritime zones,”he asserted, referencing the UN Convention on the Law of the Sea.

Plastic Pollution and the Bridge to Busan Declaration:

The President also focused on the upcoming treaty on plastic pollution in Busan, Korea. He advocated for the regulation of plastic production, noting that plastics are derived from fossil fuels, contributing to both pollution and climate change. “If we do not address the unsustainable production of primary plastic polymers, then the global goal of ending plastic pollution by 2040 and limiting the average temperature rise cannot be achieved,” President Simina stated, urging global support for the “Bridge to Busan” Declaration.

Global Peace, Security, and Reforming the Security Council: “The protection of innocent civilians everywhere, is of paramount importance”:

Turning to matters of global security, President Simina reaffirmed the nation’s commitment to global peace and security. Reflecting on the ongoing conflicts in Ukraine and the Middle East, President Simina emphasized the urgent need for diplomacy, dialogue and the protection of innocent lives. He called for the immediate release of hostages, a cessation of hostilities and renewed efforts toward a lasting peaceful resolution. President Simina concluded by emphasizing the need for the protection of innocent civilians in all conflicts, asserting that lasting peace can only be achieved when human dignity and lives are respected.

President Simina also advocated for reforms to the UN Security Council to better address modern challenges, including climate-induced security risks and called for the establishment of a Special Representative for Climate, Peace, and Security.

“This reform should make the Council more effective, inclusive, transparent, and accountable. It must reflect the realities of today rather than those of 1945.” he declared, highlighting the need for expanding the Security Council’s membership to include representation from Japan, India, Germany, Brazil and from the African continent. President Simina further noted the need to amplify the voices of under-represented regions, such as Small Island Developing States, in a reformed Council.

Health and NCDs: Addressing a Growing National Health Crisis:

President Simina spoke candidly about the health crisis facing Micronesia, where noncommunicable diseases (NCDs) remain a widespread issue. “NCDs undermine workforce productivity and contribute to poverty,” he said, outlining the country’s initiatives under the WHO’s “Healthy Islands” program. President Simina called for renewed global support to tackle the crisis and improve public health outcomes across the Pacific.

Youth and Gender Equality: “Moving towards a stronger and more inclusive future”:

President Simina emphasized the role of youth in shaping the future and called for greater investments in young people’s education, leadership, and well-being. “Our young people are the innovators and problem-solvers who will carry the torch of climate action and global justice,” he said. He also highlighted progress in gender equality in FSM, noting historic gains in women’s representation in government and reaffirming Micronesia’s commitment to CEDAW and the Pacific Leaders Gender Equality Declaration.

Conclusion – A Call for Unified Action: “I call on every nation represented here to act decisively, with courage and compassion.”:

President Simina concluded his speech by urging world leaders to seize the moment for bold, unified action. “Let this Assembly be remembered not for words spoken but for deeds done,” he implored. “The spirit of Kamorale teaches us that strength lies in unity. The time for action is now.”

As the global community faces challenges from climate change to conflict, President Simina’s address stood as a call to action, rooted in the values of unity, peace, and sustainability. The Federated States of Micronesia, though small, is ready to play its part in building a better future for all.

The 79th UNGA marked a significant milestone in FSM’s diplomatic history, showcasing both the leadership of President Simina and the nation’s increasing influence in multilateral forums. Ambassador Jeem Lippwe’s historic role in presiding over the General Assembly further symbolizes FSM’s growing stature on the world stage, as the country continues to champion issues critical to its survival and future.

View President Simina’s full address to the 79th UNGA here:

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