TOKYO, Japan — October 25, 2026 — His Excellency Wesley W. Simina, President of the Federated States of Micronesia (FSM), met with Mr. Toshiro Shirasu, President of the Overseas Fishery Cooperation Foundation of Japan (OFCF), on October 22 during his official visit to Japan to discuss ongoing fisheries development initiatives and strengthen cooperation in support of fishing communities across the FSM.The discussions highlighted Japan’s longstanding fisheries assistance to the FSM through OFCF, including the Fisheries Development Assistance for Pacific Island Nations (FDAPIN), which has supported fisheries infrastructure development and technical capacity building.
A key focus of the meeting was the implementation of the OFCF Goods and Services Program in the FSM, particularly the installation of ice-making machines on Fanapanges and Moch Islands in Chuuk State. The initiative aims to improve fish preservation, support local fishing activities, and strengthen economic opportunities for island communities.
During the discussions, President Simina highlighted implementation challenges affecting the project on Fanapanges, while noting progress on Moch, where preparations have been completed and the ice-making machine is awaiting installation. In response, OFCF President Shirasu reaffirmed his support for addressing outstanding issues and advancing the project through continued coordination with relevant FSM agencies and OFCF’s Micronesia Office. Both sides looked forward to resolving the remaining challenges and completing the installation and handover of the facilities.
The meeting underscored the continued partnership between the FSM and OFCF in advancing fisheries infrastructure, supporting sustainable fisheries development, and improving livelihoods in fishing communities across the FSM.
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