PALIKIR, Pohnpei—July 28, 2026—On July 22, His Excellency Wesley W. Simina, President of the Federated States of Micronesia, formally received the credentials of His Excellency Stuart Horne, Ambassador of New Zealand to the Federated States of Micronesia, with residence in Honolulu, Hawaii, during a ceremony held at the Office of the President.
In his remarks, President Simina welcomed Ambassador Horne and conveyed the appreciation of the Government and people of the Federated States of Micronesia for New Zealand’s continued friendship and cooperation as fellow members of the Pacific Family.
President Simina acknowledged New Zealand’s contributions through development grants, educational scholarships, and partnerships in advancing climate action. He noted that these areas of cooperation continue to support the development priorities of the FSM and strengthen relations between the two countries.
Ambassador Horne expressed his appreciation to President Simina for the warm welcome and reaffirmed New Zealand’s commitment to its friendship and cooperation with the Federated States of Micronesia. He further affirmed New Zealand’s continued support for educational opportunities for students from the FSM through the New Zealand Scholarship program.
Ambassador Horne further highlighted New Zealand’s support for the hydroponics project at the College of Micronesia-FSM as an example of practical cooperation in the areas of education, food security, and sustainable development.
During the courtesy call that followed the presentation of credentials, President Simina and Ambassador Horne discussed the shared challenges posed by climate change, recognizing the similar impacts experienced by Pacific Island countries. Their discussions also included preparations for the upcoming Pre-COP meetings and COP31, as well as opportunities for continued collaboration and coordinated advocacy on shared climate priorities.
President Simina and Ambassador Horne also exchanged views on the upcoming Pacific Islands Forum Leaders Meeting in Palau, the role of the Pacific Islands Forum in advancing regional priorities, and the Review of Regional Architecture (RRA), including its importance in ensuring that regional institutions remain responsive to the needs and priorities of Pacific countries.
The meeting reaffirmed the strong and friendly relationship between the Federated States of Micronesia and New Zealand, founded on mutual respect, shared Pacific interests, and a common commitment to sustainable development and climate resilience.
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