NIMITZ HILL, Guam – December 8, 2025 – Vice President Aren B. Palik met with the Governor of Guam, Lou Leon Guerrero, during an official visit on December 5, 2025. The meeting highlighted the close partnership between the Federated States of Micronesia (FSM) and Guam, as both leaders discussed current developments in the Micronesian region and areas of shared cooperation within international organizations to which both Guam and the FSM are parties.

Governor Leon Guerrero shared updates on Guam’s ongoing efforts to construct a new hospital, emphasizing its critical role in enhancing medical services for the people of Guam and for the broader region. She noted, “There is no regional security without human health security.”

Vice President Palik emphasized the importance of COFA Title III and its role in supporting broader efforts to promote peace, stability, and shared security across the region. He highlighted the recent Joint Committee Meeting held in Pohnpei between the FSM and the United States, noting productive discussions and the ongoing support provided to the FSM through Joint Task Force–Micronesia (JTF-M), headquartered in Guam.

The meeting also addressed shared concerns regarding Deep Seabed Mining (DSM), with both parties agreeing on the need for robust scientific research and environmental assessments before any further actions are taken. Vice President Palik reaffirmed the FSM’s precautionary approach, stating, “The FSM is currently establishing its legal framework on seabed mining, while remaining mindful of the need for more scientific research and assessments to guide environmentally sound decisions moving forward.”

The meeting concluded on a positive note, with Vice President Palik presenting a gift to Governor Leon Guerrero as a gesture of goodwill.

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