February 11, 2025 – As part of the Simina-Palik administration’s ongoing unity-building efforts, His Excellency Wesley W. Simina, President of the Federated States of Micronesia (FSM), conducted a series of citizens’ outreach meetings during official visits to Saipan and Guam, reaffirming the administration’s commitment to FSM citizens residing abroad and strengthening ties with overseas communities.

On February 7th, President Simina met with leaders of FSM state associations in Saipan over lunch at The Sushi Spot, a locally owned restaurant operated by the FSM’s very own Shane Hawley of Pohnpei State. Representatives from Pohnpei, Chuuk, Kosrae, and Yap gathered to discuss community development, access to essential services, and maintaining strong ties with the homeland. During the meeting, the President committed to participating in the 2025 FSM Independence Day celebration in Saipan, which will be hosted by the FSM Association on November 3, underscoring his support for efforts to bring FSM citizens together abroad.

The President continued his outreach with a community meeting in Saipan on February 8th where he engaged with the Chuukese community. A similar gathering followed on February 9 in Guam at the Dededo Sports Complex, allowing the President to hear directly from citizens about their concerns and on-the-ground realities.

On February 10th, President Simina met with officers of the FSM Association in Guam to further strengthen collaboration between the national government and FSM’s overseas communities. During the meeting, he encouraged the association to formalize its group as a registered non-profit or non-governmental organization, noting that doing so could open up more doors and opportunities for the community.

While in Guam, the President also met with the CEO of Bank of Guam, Mr. Joaquin P. Cook and the Chief Operating Officer Ms. Maria Leon Guerrero, to discuss ways to improve banking services for the FSM. The discussion focused on enhancing financial accessibility, expanding banking options, and addressing challenges faced by FSM citizens in Guam and across the region.

Concluding his engagements, the President sat for an interview with KUAM News on February 11th, where he addressed key issues raised by FSM citizens, including matters related to the new U.S. administration. He reaffirmed the FSM’s strong and enduring partnership with the United States and assured listeners that the government is proactively engaged with our partners and monitoring this fluid situation as it evolves. The President also encouraged citizens to ensure that their documents, such as valid passports and I-94 forms, are in order to avoid any potential issues. Additionally, the President emphasized that the government is issuing regular advisory bulletins through the FSM Embassy in DC to keep citizens informed and up to date on any developments.

These engagements highlight the Simina-Palik administration’s ongoing efforts to remain connected with FSM citizens no matter where they reside, ensuring that their voices are heard and contribute to national policy making.

###