PALIKIR, Pohnpei (FSMIS) — On May 15th, His Excellency Wesley W. Simina received the letter of credence from His Excellency Nicolas Bruhl, accrediting him as the new non-resident Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of the Swiss Confederation to the Federated States of Micronesia, with residence in Manila, Philippines.

During the ceremony, Ambassador Bruhl expressed his honor in presenting his credentials and gratitude for the invitation to visit the FSM. He highlighted the significance of April 22, marking the 21st anniversary of diplomatic relations between the FSM and Switzerland, and emphasized his commitment to strengthening bilateral ties.

Ambassador Bruhl noted the strong multilateral relationship between the FSM and Switzerland, particularly on issues like climate change. He also mentioned the recent establishment of the FSM Permanent Mission in Geneva as a milestone in their relationship. This mission, located at the European headquarters of the United Nations in Geneva, aims to connect Palikir with the international community and advocate for its interests. Bruhl pointed to potential bilateral cooperation in tourism and trade for mutual benefit.

President Wesley W. Simina welcomed Ambassador Bruhl and acknowledged him as the 6th Ambassador of the Swiss Confederation to the FSM since the establishment of their diplomatic relations 21 years ago. He highlighted the strategic importance of the new FSM Permanent Mission in Geneva, which will enhance the FSM’s participation in global discussions through organizations like the WHO and the Human Rights Council. President Simina also expressed that he looked forward to the accreditation of Permanent Representative Akillino H. Susaia as the resident Ambassador to Switzerland. He concluded by emphasizing cooperation in areas such as coastal fisheries, conservation, youth development, sports, water management, global peace, and climate change.

Following the ceremony Ambassador Bruhl also met with President Simina and Vice President Palik, the Speaker of the 23rd FSM Congress, and the Governor of Pohnpei State, reaffirming the friendly diplomatic relations between the FSM and Switzerland.

The ceremony at the President’s Office in Palikir was attended by Vice President Aren B. Palik, Acting Chief Justice Beauleen Carl-Worswick, Associate Justice Chang B. William, Cabinet Members, members of the Diplomatic Corps, International and Regional Organizations, and other national government officials.

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