Palikir, Pohnpei, August 13, 2024 – The Federated States of Micronesia (FSM) was honored to welcome the Deputy Prime Minister of New Zealand, Rt. Hon. Winston Peters, along with a delegation of Parliamentarians, marking his first official visit to the FSM. This milestone visit underscores the importance of the bilateral relationship between the FSM and New Zealand, reflecting on 36 years of diplomatic relations and opening doors to deeper cooperation in various sectors.

The engagement between H.E. President Wesley W. Simina and Deputy Prime Minister Peters in Pohnpei is a part of the Deputy Prime Minister’s 4-country tour of visits throughout the region and follows on the heels of their first meeting on the margins of PALM10 in Tokyo last month. President Simina expressed the FSM’s deep appreciation for New Zealand’s ongoing support and welcomed the diverse delegation, commending the non-partisan composition of the visiting Parliamentarians, reflecting New Zealand’s inclusive approach to Pacific diplomacy.

At the regional level, President Simina emphasized New Zealand’s vital role within the Pacific Islands Forum (PIF) and commended its leadership in addressing regional challenges. Both leaders discussed the upcoming Forum Leaders Meeting in Tonga and exchanged views on key issues facing the region. President Simina reaffirmed the importance of Pacific unity despite differing perspectives and stressed that, as a Pacific family, the FSM remains committed to the “Pacific Way” of dialogue and consensus. The conversation also touched on the potential for a meeting between President Simina and New Zealand Prime Minister Christopher Luxon during the Forum, further reinforcing the spirit of regional solidarity.

On the bilateral front, President Simina reflected on the longstanding relationship between the FSM and New Zealand, noting the shared history since formalizing relations in 1988. The President conveyed the FSM’s desire to enhance these ties, particularly in areas such as climate change, economic development, and education. President Simina also noted that this visit serves as an opportunity to commemorate 36 years of friendship and cooperation, which was honored that evening in a reception and traditional sakau ceremony.

Discussions also focused on potential collaboration between the FSM and New Zealand on significant development projects, including the proposed One UN House Project. This initiative aims to establish a centralized UN office complex in the North Pacific, with FSM hosting the facility in Pohnpei. The project is envisioned as bolstering the FSM as a regional hub to accommodate further UN agencies and regional organizations. President Simina expressed hope for New Zealand’s support for this project, noting the benefits it would bring not only to FSM but to the wider Pacific region.

New Zealand’s contributions to the FSM over the years have been substantial, including support for education, fisheries management, and environmental initiatives. Notably, New Zealand has provided scholarships for FSM students, supported the removal of oil from Chuuk Lagoon, and contributed to COVID-19 recovery efforts. Recent investments in climate finance and support for UNICEF-led projects to improve early childhood development further demonstrate New Zealand’s commitment to sustainable development in the FSM.

During the dinner reception held in honor of the visit, T.H. Vice President Palik reflected on the 36 years of FSM-New Zealand diplomatic relations,  “we must be reminded of the fact that in the early days of our country’s quest for formal recognition, it was New Zealand that came forth and became the fifth country in the world to boldly declared to the international community of its formal recognition of the sovereignty and independence of Micronesia.” he stated.

“This early noble act of recognition laid the very foundation for the cherished and respectable relationship that we enjoy together this evening. For this noble act, the FSM and our people will continue to remain deeply grateful.”

As the Deputy Prime Minister continues his tour, the FSM looks forward to building on this momentum and further strengthening the bonds of friendship and cooperation between the two nations.

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