PALIKIR, Pohnpei, FSM - On February 21, 2024, in a ceremony attended by distinguished guests and officials, His Excellency Ambassador Pereric Högberg presented his credentials to His Excellency President Wesley W. Simina, officially marking his accreditation as the Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of the Kingdom of Sweden to the Federated States of Micronesia (FSM).
The ceremony, held at the President's Office in Palikir, was graced by the presence of Vice-President Palik, Governor Stevenson Joseph, the Dean and members of the diplomatic corps, cabinet members, and other national and state officials.
In his statement, President Wesley W. Simina expressed his sincere gratitude to Ambassador Högberg for his warm remarks and extended a heartfelt welcome on behalf of the nation. President Simina emphasized the significance of Ambassador Högberg's accreditation in strengthening the relationship between FSM and Sweden, highlighting the shared values of democracy, human rights, and global peace that bind the two countries together.
Addressing the pressing issue of climate change, President Simina underscored the real and immediate threats faced by FSM due to climate change, including coastal erosion and threats to livelihoods. He expressed appreciation for Sweden's initiatives on Short-Lived Climate Forcers (SLCFs) and advocated for further collaboration on mitigation and adaptation measures. President Simina also expressed gratitude for Sweden's valuable assistance through the European Development Fund, which has supported community enrichment and livelihood initiatives in FSM.
In closing, President Simina expressed confidence in the continued progress of the relationship between FSM and Sweden under Ambassador Högberg's stewardship. He encouraged Ambassador Högberg and Madam Anna Högberg to explore the beauty and diversity of the FSM by visiting the other states of the federation.
Ambassador Högberg expressed his gratitude for the warm welcome and reaffirmed Sweden's commitment to deepening bilateral relations with FSM. He emphasized the importance of collaboration and partnership in addressing shared challenges and expressed optimism about the opportunities for cooperation in various sectors.
During the courtesy call that followed, President Simina raised the issue of establishing an EU presence in the North Pacific, expressing FSM's welcome to such a presence. He also highlighted the FSM's ongoing efforts to establish an FSM Diplomatic Mission in Geneva, Switzerland, and expressed hope for expanded cooperation in wider-Europe. President Simina assured Ambassador Högberg of the fully operational status of the United Nations Multi Country Office in the FSM, and conveyed the FSM's gratitude for Sweden's support.
The ceremony and subsequent meeting concluded with an exchange of pleasantries and gifts, symbolizing the beginning of a new chapter in the diplomatic relations between FSM and Sweden.
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