OSAKA, Japan — The Federated States of Micronesia (FSM) is pleased to announce the successful completion of the first official working visit to Japan by the Vice President, the Honorable Aren B. Palik. The visit, which took place from April 8 to 14, 2025, marked an important step in strengthening the ties of friendship and cooperation between the FSM and Japan — a bond celebrated by both nations as Kizuna, symbolizing an unbreakable connection built on trust, shared values, and mutual respect.

A key highlight of the visit was the Vice President’s bilateral meeting with the Chief Cabinet Secretary of Japan, the Honorable Yoshimasa Hayashi, held on April 10, 2025, at the Prime Minister’s Office in Tokyo. During this important exchange, both sides reaffirmed their commitment to deepening the FSM–Japan Kizuna, acknowledging its role as the cornerstone of the two nations’ longstanding and evolving relationship. The discussions addressed a range of shared priorities, including maritime security, infrastructure development, digital connectivity, climate change resilience, and economic growth through tourism and fisheries.

As part of his official itinerary, Vice President Palik also attended the opening ceremony of Expo 2025 Osaka–Kansai on April 12, 2025, held at the Shining Hat Hall on Yumeshima Island. The high-profile event was graced by the presence of Their Majesties Emperor Naruhito and Empress Masako, as well as Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba and numerous international dignitaries.

At the Expo venue, the FSM is proudly represented with a national booth that showcases the rich culture, heritage, and natural beauty of our islands. Spearheaded by the FSM Department of Resources & Development (R&D) in close collaboration with the State Governments, the booth highlights traditional crafts and visual displays that celebrate the unique identity of the Micronesian people from Yap, Chuuk, Pohnpei and Kosrae. It stands as a symbol of unity and pride, inviting the world to experience the spirit of the FSM.

Vice President Palik also took the opportunity to congratulate Japan on the successful preparations for Expo 2025 Osaka–Kansai and confirmed FSM’s enthusiastic participation. He highlighted the importance of the FSM National Day celebration, scheduled for July 31, 2025, where the President of the FSM, His Excellency Wesley W. Simina, is expected to lead an FSM delegation.

Beyond the bilateral meetings, the Vice President’s visit featured several key engagements, including visits to the National Museum of Ethnology in Osaka, academic dialogues at Osaka Gakuin University, including the President of the Osaka Gakuin University, who is also the FSM Honorary Consul-General in the Osaka region.

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(Photo credits: Government of Japan)