Among others, the primary areas of discussion included an overview of the INDOPACOM security theater with emphasis on current regional security challenges in the Indo-Pacifc region, a brief of INDOPACOM J44 Joint Posture Management which includes an overview of the US Department of Defense’s (DOD) construction and infrastructure projects in the FSM particularly in areas of airfield modernization, port upgrades and future engagements of US Marine Forces in the FSM with specific reference to the upcoming Taskforce Koa Moana exercise with an estimated 100 plus US Marines to be deployed to all FSM States to perform small scale construction projects as well as medical and law enforcement subject matter expert exchanges.

Discussions on the Pacific Fleet’s maritime posture were highlighted confirming the FSM’s participation in the upcoming Pacific Partnership 2024-2 scheduled to be held in the summer of 2024 in Yap and Kosrae, as well as FSM’s submission of salvage operation of M/V Micro Spirit in Yap. Mutual interests were also confirmed for shoal removal in the Kosrae channel which continues to be a risk for passenger and cargo vessels.

Activity updates of the US Coast Guard in the FSM were also discussed with highlights on the recent Search & Rescue Operations (SAR), humanitarian assistance in the FSM States, as well as the successful selection of Ms. Stasia Fugog of Yap in the US Coast Guard Academy for Class of 2028. Both parties also discussed the ways forward for the FSM-US Defense Site Working Group with emphasis on the critical need for consultations to be undertaken with all stakeholders at the National, State, municipal and community levels.

General discussions were also held on the ongoing and upcoming support of law enforcement training and essential equipment support. As with prior JCM engagements, the FSM was provided an opportunity to submit its primary security concerns and, among others, submitted the oil leakage in Chuuk from the World War II shipwrecks. General references were also made on the impact of climate change in the overall security apparatus of the Indo-Pacific which were acknowledged and welcomed.

“I wish to submit FSM’s strong and unwavering commitment to the fulfillment of Title III obligations and will do its part in ensuring that our region and our people live in an environment that is safe and secured”, Vice President Palik expressed in his opening remarks.

With support of national and state staff, primary principals accompanying Vice President Palik included the Speaker Esmond Moses, Governor of Kosrae State T.H. Tulensa W. Palik, the Governor of Chuuk State T.H. Alexander Narruhn, the Govenor of Pohnpei State T.H. Stevenson Joseph and T.H. Lt. Governor Francis Itimai of Yap State.

For the US delegation, Rear Admiral Gregory Huffman, Commander of the Joint Region Marianas and US Ambassador to the FSM Jennifer L. Johnson led the delegation with essential personnel from the US Armed Forces, as well as support staff from the FBI, NOAA, DOI and CIA. Both parties concluded this year’s Mid-Year JCM by agreeing that the next main JCM Meeting will be held in Chuuk State in November 2024.

“These meetings allow us the chance to sit together and discuss priorities, enhance our partnerships and look for opportunities to strengthen the communities throughout the FSM,” Huffman said.

Ambassador Johnson stated, “Over the past two days, we had productive and meaningful exchanges to address specific security challenges, recap our accomplishments, and pave the way forward. We were very pleased by the large, high-level turnout from both sides, and we look forward to our next meeting in Chuuk as we continue the momentum we built with our enduring partners and friends.”

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