PALIKIR, Pohnpei – In a significant ceremony earlier this week, the Joint Committee on Compact Review & Planning (JCRP) officially handed over essential documents pertaining to the Compact of Free Association (COFA) to the Office of the President on July 16th, 2024.

With the amended COFA now in force, the JCRP has successfully fulfilled its mission and will be closing its doors. The responsibility of implementing and managing the provisions of the amended Compact now transitions to the Office of the President.

The documents handed over included:

1. 1. The Final Compact Act Text (H.J. Res. 96);
   2. Exchange of Notes;

– Original signed copies of the following agreements as signed by FSM Chief Negotiator Leo A. Falcam Jr., and U.S. Special Presidential Envoy for Compact Negotiations Joseph Yun:

1. 3. Agreement Between the Government of the Federated States of Micronesia and the Government of the United States of America to Amend the Compact of Free Association, as Amended (2023 Compact Amendments);
   4. Agreement Concerning Procedures for the Implementation of United States Economic Assistance Provided in the 2023 Amended Compact Between the Government of the Federated States of Micronesia and the Government of the United States of America (2023 Fiscal Procedures Agreement or 2023 FPA);
   5. Agreement Between the Government of the Federated States of Micronesia and the Government of the United States of America Regarding the Compact Trust Fund (2023 Compact Trust Fund Agreement or 2023 CTFA);
   6. 2023 Federal Programs and Services Agreement Between the Government of the Federated States of Micronesia and the Government of the United States of America (2023 Federal Programs and Services Agreement or 2023 FPSA).

The JCRP has been instrumental in negotiating, reviewing and planning the amendments to the 2023 Compact of Free Association. Established with the mandate to ensure that the FSM’s interests were adequately represented and protected during the negotiation process, the JCRP has worked diligently over these past few years. Their efforts have been crucial in securing agreements that will support the FSM’s economic stability and development.

During the handover ceremony, T.H. Vice President Aren B. Palik thanked the members of JCRP and their dedicated staff for their commitment and service to the nation.

“The efforts of the JCRP have been invaluable in ensuring that our nation’s future is secure. The agreements reached will provide significant benefits to our people, and we are grateful for the committee’s commitment to this critical work.” he stated.

Mr. Asterio Takesy, Chairman of the JCRP stated, “I am grateful to have had the opportunity to collaborate with individuals who share a common vision for a better future and who are committed to making a positive difference in the lives of our people.”

The handover ceremony signifies the phase of transition and implementation the FSM is entering in its enduring partnership with the United States, built on mutual respect and cooperation.

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