PALIKIR, Pohnpei – Yesterday on June 27th, 2024, His Excellency President Wesley W. Simina warmly welcomed His Excellency Andreas Pfaffernoschke, the newly appointed Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of the Federal Republic of Germany to the FSM, during a ceremony for the presentation of credentials.

In his remarks, President Simina celebrated the strong and friendly diplomatic relations between the FSM and Germany, which were formalized on April 21, 1992. He emphasized the shared values and interests that have underpinned this partnership, including a mutual commitment to regional and global security, respect for the international rules-based order, and concerted efforts to address the existential threat of climate change.

“I extend my personal congratulations to you, Mr. Ambassador,” President Simina stated. “Our nations have enjoyed a cordial relationship, collaborating on crucial issues that affect both our regions and the broader international community.”

President Simina acknowledged Germany’s significant contributions to global development and its support for small island states, particularly in international climate discussions such as the COP process. He expressed optimism for future dialogues aimed at enhancing bilateral cooperation, especially in human resource development, health and education sectors, cultural preservation, and community development.

“Your country’s ongoing support in these areas is invaluable,” the President noted. “We look forward to exploring a more integrated and mature bilateral portfolio, including the possibility of a Memorandum of Technical Cooperation to streamline our exchanges.”

President Simina also proposed the consideration of establishing an Honorary Consul of Germany in the FSM, which would further strengthen the ties between the two nations. He highlighted the potential benefits of such a role, given the presence of other European Honorary Consuls in the FSM and the existing ancestral ties to Germany among local families.

On regional cooperation, President Simina expressed appreciation for Germany’s engagement as a Post Forum Dialogue Partner and anticipated further bilateral exchanges at the upcoming 53rd Pacific Islands Forum Leaders Meeting in Tonga.

“Germany’s role in the European Union and its contributions to global initiatives are commendable,” the President remarked. “We reiterate our interest in hosting a European Union Mission in the FSM, a step that would enhance our interactions with the EU and broaden its strategic presence in the Pacific.”

Concluding the ceremony, President Simina thanked Ambassador Pfaffernoschke and Madam Marina Pfaffernoschke for their visit and conveyed his hopes for a fruitful and cooperative relationship moving forward.

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