WENO, Chuuk – The Federated States of Micronesia (FSM) hosted the 2024 Joint Committee Meeting (JCM) with the United States of America from November 13-14, 2024, in Chuuk State. This two-day meeting brought together officials from both nations to discuss key aspects of their bilateral defense and security partnership under the Compact of Free Association.
The Honorable Lorin S. Robert, FSM Secretary of Foreign Affairs, opened the meeting by welcoming the two delegations. The U.S. delegation was led by Her Excellency Jennifer Johnson, U.S. Ambassador to the FSM, while prominent U.S. military representative Rear Admiral Gregory Huffman joined virtually due to travel disruptions caused by Tropical Storm Man-Yi.
The meeting began with the adoption of the 2024 Mid-Year JCM minutes, followed by a review of key developments since the last meeting. Topics included the agreement of the Defense Site Working Group, updates on port improvement projects, FSM’s request for the return of CAT Camps to the four states, and proposals for future military operations, activities, and investments. Subject-matter experts from both the FSM and the U.S. provided detailed briefs on regional program updates, construction projects, and security initiatives over the past six months.
A major focus of the discussions was FSM’s security concerns. Secretary of Justice Leonito Bacalando Jr. highlighted the challenges faced by FSM law enforcement, including the urgent need for training programs and U.S. assistance in patrolling FSM’s Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ). The presentation underscored the difficulties caused by mechanical issues with the Guardian-class patrol boats, which have hindered FSM’s maritime enforcement capabilities.
Updates were also provided on U.S. Department of Defense construction and infrastructure projects across the FSM. These include airfield modernization and seaport upgrades in Yap, commercial port improvements in Kosrae, the construction of a pre-engineered warehouse in Pohnpei, and basic harbor infrastructure enhancements in Chuuk. These projects are aimed at improving FSM’s critical infrastructure and supporting regional security.
The meeting featured briefings on recent and upcoming U.S. military engagements in the FSM. The U.S. Marine Forces Pacific (MARPAC) outlined the success of Taskforce Koa Moana, which conducted small-scale construction projects, health training, and community engagement in FSM states from August to September 2024. The U.S. Air Force provided updates on the ongoing airfield modernization project in Yap and confirmed the return of Operation Christmas Drop, scheduled for December 8-13, 2024, to deliver humanitarian aid to FSM’s outer islands.
Pacific Partnership initiatives were another key topic of discussion. The Pacific Fleet (PACFLT) highlighted the success of the Pacific Partnership 2024 missions in Kosrae and Yap, which strengthened regional ties through community engagement and humanitarian projects. It was announced that Pohnpei and Chuuk will host the Pacific Partnership 2025 missions, scheduled for August to September 2025, further deepening collaboration between FSM and its partners.
The U.S. Coast Guard also shared updates on its activities in FSM, including recent search and rescue operations in Yap and Chuuk and funding for boat safety workshops. Discussions explored the possibility of utilizing Coast Guard cutters to transport humanitarian goods to FSM’s outer islands when operational in the region.
During the meeting, Secretary Robert re-submitted the Simina-Palik Administration’s proposal to construct a memorial shrine at the FSM National Capitol Complex in Palikir. The shrine would honor FSM citizens who made the ultimate sacrifice in military service, reflecting the nation’s enduring commitment to its defense and security partnerships.
The meeting concluded with both governments agreeing on a list of Working Action Items, which will be closely monitored in preparation for the next Mid-Year JCM, tentatively scheduled for May 2025 in Guam.
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