PALIKIR, Pohnpei – June 24, 2024 — His Excellency President Wesley W. Simina of the Federated States of Micronesia (FSM) hosted Dr. Akihiko Tanaka, President of the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA), in a historic visit to the FSM. This visit marks the first occasion a sitting President of JICA has visited the FSM, underscoring a significant milestone in the bilateral relationship between FSM and JICA.
The meeting began with President Simina officially welcoming Dr. Tanaka to the FSM and expressing gratitude for his visit. Dr. Tanaka reaffirmed the robust ties between JICA and the FSM, emphasizing JICA’s commitment to aligning its initiatives with President Simina’s vision and the FSM Government’s priorities. Dr. Tanaka requested President Simina to share the national plans and strategic focus areas of the FSM to ensure coherent collaboration.
President Simina articulated his vision of unity for the FSM, highlighting that “through unity, we gain strength and prosperity.” He acknowledged the timely nature of Dr. Tanaka’s visit to build on the “Kizuna” (bonds of friendship) between the FSM and Japan. President Simina expressed appreciation for JICA’s contributions to the FSM’s infrastructure development, including docks and runways, and noted the ongoing need for JICA’s support in these areas. He emphasized that the FSM’s National Government acts as a conduit to the State Governments, acknowledging the collaborative efforts of all four states in the nation’s development endeavors.
Dr. Tanaka commended President Simina’s concept of unity, recognizing its importance in guiding JICA’s collaborative activities. He highlighted the significance of human capacity development in enhancing unity, stressing the need to cultivate capable administrators across various sectors, including communication, fisheries, and education.
Addressing the issue of “brain drain,” President Simina expressed hope that FSM students who pursue education in Japan would return to contribute to their home country. He pointed to the need for improved infrastructure and strategic development plans to retain and utilize the skills of FSM’s young citizens. Dr. Tanaka suggested that enhancing higher education within the FSM, similar to JICA’s support for the University of the South Pacific, could help in retaining talent and attracting both local and international students, including those from Japan.
Dr. Tanaka also raised the issue of solid waste management, a common challenge for island nations. He mentioned JICA’s J-Prism scheme, which supports the design and management of waste sites in island nations through capacity building and site design measures.
Concluding the courtesy call, President Simina proposed a follow-up meeting with key staff from both parties to further discuss and refine the topics raised during their conversation. Both leaders expressed their eagerness for continued dialogue and collaboration, looking forward to their next meeting in Japan at the upcoming PALM 10 meeting which President Simina will be attending as well as the Japan Expo.
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