TOKYO, Japan — October 24, 2026 — His Excellency Wesley W. Simina, President of the Federated States of Micronesia (FSM), held a bilateral summit meeting with Her Excellency Sanae Takaichi, Prime Minister of Japan, on October 23, marking a key engagement of his official working visit to Japan from October 21 to 24, 2026.
Ahead of the summit, Prime Minister Takaichi welcomed President Simina with a ceremonial guard of honor, followed by the formal introduction of Japanese Cabinet members to President Simina and members of the FSM delegation to Prime Minister Takaichi. During the meeting, Prime Minister Takaichi reaffirmed Japan’s commitment to a Free and Open Indo-Pacific and highlighted progress on the Pohnpei State Port Expansion Project. She also confirmed Japan’s support for the FSM Government’s request for a cargo-passenger vessel to replace the aging MV Caroline Voyager, a priority President Simina has continued to pursue since his first official working visit to Japan in 2024.
Meeting Prime Minister Takaichi in person for the first time since she assumed office, President Simina congratulated her on her historic achievement and expressed appreciation for Japan’s steadfast friendship. Marking 38 years of diplomatic relations, President Simina noted that the enduring spirit of Kizuna continues to guide the partnership. He also conveyed the condolences of the FSM Government and people for the lives lost and destruction caused by recent Kumamoto earthquake and Typhoon Dujuan.
President Simina reaffirmed the FSM’s commitment to promoting peace and cooperation with Japan in a Free and Open Indo-Pacific. He welcomed progress on the Pohnpei port expansion project and opportunities for cooperation in next-generation solar technologies and fisheries.
On global and regional matters, President Simina reaffirmed the FSM’s support for Japan’s bid for permanent membership in a reformed United Nations Security Council, congratulated Japan on its election to the UN Human Rights Council, and conveyed the FSM’s support towards strengthening regional cooperation with Japan at the upcoming Pacific Islands Leaders Meeting (PALM11) in Yokohama.
The summit concluded with President Simina reaffirming the deep friendship between the two countries, stating, “I look forward to working with you, your Government and the People of Japan in strengthening our special bond of Kizuna now and into the future.”
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