WENO, Chuuk — February 4, 2026 — His Excellency Wesley W. Simina, President of the Federated States of Micronesia (FSM), formally handed over the renovated Chuuk Agriculture Station, with a focus on biosecurity and quarantine operations, to the Chuuk State Government during a ceremony held at the Chuuk State Department of Agriculture in Weno.
The facility strengthens national and state efforts to protect FSM from invasive alien species by enhancing biosecurity and quarantine operations in Chuuk State. It will serve the Chuuk State Department of Agriculture while providing dedicated space to support inspection, monitoring, and response activities critical to safeguarding agriculture, the environment, and public well-being.
The ceremony brought together the Lieutenant Governor of Chuuk State, national and state government officials, traditional leaders, and development partners, reflecting the shared commitment to strengthening biosecurity systems and protecting the nation’s natural resources.
In his remarks, President Simina underscored the importance of biosecurity for the nation’s long-term resilience. “For an island nation such as ours, biosecurity is a matter of national security. Effective border protection is our first line of defense in safeguarding our agriculture, economy, and environment,” President Simina said.
The President expressed appreciation to the National Department of Resources and Development for leading the initiative and coordinating national efforts to strengthen biosecurity systems. He also acknowledged the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) as the implementing partner, thanking the organization for its continued support to the FSM in addressing invasive species and biosecurity challenges.
Chuuk State Lieutenant Governor Mekioshy William welcomed the handover, describing the facility as a vital asset for the State. “This facility is more than just a building—it is a practical tool in our efforts to protect Chuuk’s biodiversity and support the livelihoods of our people,” Lieutenant Governor William said.
Ms. Rowena Dimaampao, UNDP Operations Manager, highlighted the importance of biosecurity at the community level. “For Chuuk State, where livelihoods are closely tied to land and sea, effective biosecurity is essential,” Ms. Dimaampao said.
The handover reflects the FSM Government’s continued commitment, in partnership with state governments and development partners, to strengthening biosecurity capacity and protecting the nation’s natural resources.
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