PALIKIR, Pohnpei, August 7, 2024 – His Excellency Wesley W. Simina, President of the Federated States of Micronesia (FSM), had a productive meeting with the legislative branch from the outer island of Pingelap, led by T.H. Speaker Kinsiro Boaz. This meeting is part of the Simina-Palik administration’s continued commitment to engage with and address the unique needs of the FSM’s outer island communities. Joining President Simina were the T.H. Vice President Aren B. Palik and senior staff.

In October last year, President Simina paid a state visit to Pingelap as part of his nationwide outreach efforts. During this visit, he had the opportunity to hear firsthand the challenges faced by the residents of Pingelap and agree on actions to take moving forward.

During the meeting, key topics of discussion included food security projects and pressing transportation issues. The President expressed his dedication to improving transportation connectivity for outer islands, which is vital for economic development and access to essential services. He conveyed that conditions should soon improve with the FSM’s vessel Caroline Voyager recently completing its dry docking in Japan and now on its way back to the FSM.

“This administration is committed to working closely with outer island communities to bridge the gap and build resilience to climate change,” stated President Simina. “Improving transportation connectivity is not just a critical step in this process, but also a means to strengthen unity across our islands.”

The meeting concluded with thoughtful gifts presented from Pingelap and a renewed commitment to the collaborative efforts that were initiated during the state visit last October.

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