KOLONIA, Pohnpei – June 23, 2026 – On June 15, 2026, Secretary of the Department of Foreign Affairs, Ricky F. Cantero, paid a courtesy visit to the Embassy of the United States of America as part of his introductory engagements following his swearing-in as Secretary of Foreign Affairs. Secretary Cantero was received by U.S. Ambassador Jennifer Johnson and Deputy Chief of Mission Vincent Mut-Tracy, together with Acting Defense Attaché Nicholas Grader, Political Officer Patrick Reidy, and Consular Officer Amy Gradin.

The meeting began with Ambassador Johnson congratulating Secretary Cantero on his appointment and wishing him success in his new role. Secretary Cantero expressed his appreciation for the Ambassador’s kind remarks and that he looks forward to working closely with the U.S. Embassy team.

Discussions covered a range of topics of mutual interest, including recovery efforts following Typhoon Sinlaku, economic diplomacy, U.S. Department of War projects in the Federated States of Micronesia (FSM) and the wider region, outcomes of recent bilateral engagements such as the Joint Economic Management Committee (JEMCO) and the Joint Committee Meeting (JCM), as well as recent international events of mutual interest. The meeting also included discussion of the FSM Diplomatic Softball Tournament, for which Ambassador Johnson expressed the U.S. Embassy’s interest in serving as a co-host later this year.

Both Secretary Cantero and Ambassador Johnson underscored the importance of the Compact of Free Association between the FSM and the United States, noting its unique and enduring nature, and reaffirmed their continued support for the partnership. The meeting concluded with Secretary Cantero presenting Ambassador Johnson with a commemorative gift to mark the occasion and as a farewell gesture as she prepares to complete her tenure as U.S. Ambassador to the FSM.