Japan Turns Over New Police Vehicle to the National Goverment

A turn-over ceremony was held at the President’s Conference Room on the morning of February 2, 2015. A Japanese delegation, comprised of four members, paid a courtesy call on Federated States of Micronesia (FSM) President Emanuel (Manny) Mori, to officially turn over a new law enforcement vehicle to the FSM Government.

In accepting the vehicle, President Mori expressed profound gratitude on behalf of the Department of Justice (DOJ) and the FSM Government. Mr. Shigeru Kawano, the President of ASKA and MPI - a captive insurance company that was established in Micronesia, donated one vehicle to the National DOJ while the other two were purchased by National DOJ. At one of the Captive Insurance Seminars held in Tokyo in 2013, Mr. Kawano met Attorney General April Skilling and became aware of the need of police cars in the FSM Government. 

In the President’s remarks, he echoed his sincere appreciation as promises, “I want to promise you that we are going to use the vehicles as the government’s most valuable assets,” and further expressed, “another promise is that we are going to do our very best to serve you and also continue to improve the relationship between the captive association in Japan and also in the FSM.”

A Japanese company that specializes in manufacturing high quality law enforcement vehicles manufactured the three police cars that were donated.  In efforts of delivering brand new vehicles, Mr. Kawano was able to arrange fully scaled police cars that are installed with advanced electronic components such as sirens and searchlights. As Mr. Kawano stated, the blue colored cars signifies the vast ocean in Micronesia. 

President Mori noted the close relationship and strong alliance between Japan and FSM and hopes that they continue to strengthen the relationship between the two nations.

ASKA is an enterprise group, based on transportation such as taxis and buses. This enterprise group also specializes in handling advanced equipment for vehicles. 1900 taxis are with 4300 employees and the enterprise’s annual sale is 27 billion yen. Members comprised of Mr. Kawano’s delegation were Shigeki Sasakura, Yutaka Ezure and Ken Yoshizaki.

Present with President Mori were Department of Justice Secretary April Skilling, Chief of National Police Johnny Santos, Commander Steward Peter and staff. 

The First Official Meeting to Promote National Unity held at COM-FSM National Campus

The first official meeting to promote National Unity took place at the College of Micronesia (COM) National campus on January 28, 2015.  Federated States of Micronesia (FSM) President Emanuel (Manny) Mori met with COM staff and students to exchange views on the Chuuk State Government’s Secession Initiative.

In front of a standing audience, the President expressed profound gratitude for the students’ positive response to meet.  It reflects they care about what the future holds for them.  That was one of the reasons COM-FSM was chosen as the first ground to enlist support against secession given the number of Chuukese students there that could potentially be impacted from secession.  He indicated that some may not be aware of the full implication of the Initiative.  It is a very important issue and the people deserve ample time to understand its pros and cons.  As it turns out, the Chuuk State Government has put it on the ballot on March 3, 2015, and urges Chuukese to vote “YES” to secede.  The National Government on the other hand is promoting unity. 

It was highlighted that the Secession Initiative is a response to the Nation-wide 2023 Action Plan, which shows a $40.4 million fiscal gap to meet the $94.5 million required to sustain the annual operation of the five governments after the Year 2023.  Chuuk’s share of that budgetary shortfall is $21.7 million. Instead of galvanizing efforts to implement the 2023 Action Plan and overcome development challenges, Chuuk State Government opted for secession.  The rhetoric advanced by secessionists is Chuuk would prosper under independence, whereas remaining in the Federation would hinder socio-economic development.  However, the secessionists are not transparent on how the State Government would tackle the basic and critical factors of development, including land use and effective resource allocation, which have languished and regressed development efforts for more than 20 years. 

The Chuuk financial crisis of late 1990s to mid-2000s exposed flaws and shortcomings in public governance and had sparked national remedies for them.  The National Government bailed out the State from its financial debacle through financial reform.

The President underscored the fundamental importance for the four states and the National Government to maintain unity as a nation as enshrined in the Constitution.  As Head of State and Government, he has a solemn duty to uphold the Constitution and advance the principles of unity.

Among other nation-building initiatives, the President has organized a FSM Task Force on National Unity to educate and raise awareness among citizens about this political issue while correcting the misinformation that have been brought forth by CSPSC representatives.  While voters’ disconnect is a primary concern, it is believed that the Secession Initiative is fomented to distract efforts needed to ensure success of the Action Plan for 2023 and beyond.  

The President encourages Chuukese to make an informed decision comes March election. He referenced Palau Compact with the US Government, highlighting uncertainty of a Compact negotiation for a new independent Republic of Chuuk.  Palau’s Compact has been inactive with the US Congress for some time now and shed light on the often lengthy and difficult process of negotiating a treaty, especially under a GOP controlled Congress, who are known to be more conservative --- not as generous as the Democrats.  A U.S. representative, who was present at the meeting, confirmed misleading information in the media by pointing out that there has been no exchange between any member of the CSPSC and U.S. officials on a possible Compact negotiation for Chuuk if it were to secede from the federation.

Also present with President Mori was Assistant Attorney General, Joses Gallen, who clarified the legal process concerning this Initiative. Part of the discussion noted secession as unlawful. The legal pathway to amend the constitution was also addressed, which would require 75% of voters and 75% of state votes. No legal action can be taken as of now as it would be a violation to people’s right to freedom of expression.

President Mori strongly urges Chuukese to maintain solidarity and unity with the Federation and thwart any obstruction to nation-building and to vote “NO” on March 3rd. Though ideology division plays an important role on both ends of the argument, the President hopes to pull together by working on areas of common interest that would further nation-building throughout the states. 

The Eighth States and National Leadership Conference (SNLC) held at the College of Micronesia (COM) FSM Gym in Palikir, Pohnpei.

The Eighth SNLC officially opened on Thursday morning, January 29, 2015, at the College of Micronesia (COM) FSM Gym, Palikir, Pohnpei.  During the two-day conference, the SNLC Principals discussed critical issues for the economic and social development of the FSM including: 2023 Framework and Action Plan, investment facilitation, policy drafts on tourism development and debt management, Center for Micronesian Empowerment, and overseas development assistance through the FSM-China bilateral on trade and commerce.  

This FSM SNLC Session was attended by the following National and State Delegations comprised of the FSM President, H.E. Emanuel Mori, Govenor John Ehsa, and Lt. Governor Marcelo Peterson of the State of Pohnpei, Lt. Governor Marius Akapito of the State of Chuuk, Lt. Governor James Yangetmai of the State of Yap, Speakers Tulensa Palik of State of Kosrae, Fernando Scaliem of the State of Pohnpei, House of Representatives Floor Leader Asaichy Sana and Senate Chairman Nelson Stephen of the Chuuk State Legislature, and the Honorable Associate Justice Beauleen Carl-Worswick of the FSM Supreme Court, Chief Justices Aliksa Aliksa of Kosrae State Court,  Camillo Noket of Chuuk State Court and Benjamin Rodriguez of Pohnpei State Court.

Also present were Members of the State Legislatures, National and State Cabinet Members, members of the Diplomatic Missions and International and Regional Organizations, representatives from the private sector and supporting staff.

The 8^th FSM SNLC was chaired by Hon. Ehsa, Governor of Pohnpei State, and assisted by Hon. Akaptio, Lt. Governor of Chuuk State, as vice-chair.  The Principals of this Conference adopted two Resolutions on 2023 Action Plan and air transportation. The 8th FSM SNLC also agreed to endorse the 2014 FSM Investment Guide and the Draft National Tourism Policy and State Tourism Investment Plans and urged the FSM Department of R&D to finalize these in collaboration with State Governments.

One prevailing consensus throughout the 8th SNLC deliberations was the need for the Five Government to work together as the Nation devises the best strategy to address its challenges moving toward 2023. In this regards, President Mori urged States and National Leaders to remain committed to the legacy of the Founding Fathers of the FSM and to work collectively toward building an ever stronger and unified Nation.

The Communiqué and Resolutions were signed by the five Heads of Delegations for the 8^th FSM SNLC which concluded the Conference on January 30, 2015. 

For details, please contact the SNLC Secretariat, Department of Resources and Development, by email: fsmrd@fsmrd.fm or telephone: +691 320-2620/2646/5133.

 

President Mori Received Letter of Credence for Ambassador Thomas Ossowski of the Federative Republic of Germany

In the afternoon of January 28, 2015, President Emanuel Mori received the Letter of Credence for Ambassador Thomas Ossowski, officially accrediting him as the Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of the Federative Republic of Germany to the Federated States of Micronesia, with residence in Manila, Philippines.

The brief ceremony was followed by a courtesy call which provided an opportunity for exchanges of views on issues of common interests between the two countries.  After conveying sentiments of welcome to the Ambassador, President Mori expressed appreciation for past assistance provided to support works of the Micronesian Seminar in the area of cataloging the history of the Micronesia region, specific to the German Era.  He mentioned historical remnants of Germany in the FSM, which includes not only historical infrastructures, but familial linkages as well.  At the multi-lateral level, the President acknowledged the close cooperative relation that exists between the two countries at the UN level.  He highlighted the issue of climate change as a top priority for the FSM, and thanked the Ambassador for Germany's leadership and continuing support such as Germany's contribution to the United Nations' Green Fund.  Aside from climate change, the President also indicated the fight against terrorism as an area in which both countries share common views.

As a member of the European Union, the President also took the opportunity to convey appreciation for assistance through the European Development Fund mechanism in the field of renewal able energy.  He went on to briefly mention the pre-occupation of the country with respect to preparation for 2023, and the ongoing process involved in a proposed action plan for the FSM for which Germany's technical support and assistance would be welcomed.  The President ended his intervention by congratulation the Ambassador for the successful accreditation.

Ambassador Ossowski responded with acknowledgement of Germany's history in Micronesia, along with advice of a recent discovery in Germany of testimonials or manuscripts of a German doctor who served in Micronesia during the German period.  He mentioned a planned canoe building to be held in Germany in August of this year and invitation already extended to traditional navigators and sailors from Yap State to participate.  As an area for strengthened cooperation, the Ambassador mentioned the upcoming climate change meeting to be held in Paris during the latter part of 2015 and confirmed a preferred outcome for an agreement that is more committal and binding.  The Ambassador took the opportunity to convey appreciation for past support for its candidatures in the UN system along with the request for continued support of upcoming candidatures.

Present in the ceremony and courtesy call were Secretary Lorin. S. Robert of the Department of Foreign Affairs, Deputy Secretary Samson Pretrick, and staffs.

PRESIDENTIAL ORDER: FSM Task Force on National Unity

To view the Presidential Order on the FSM Task Force on National Unity, please visit the official website (www.fsmpio.fm) or go to following link:

http://www.fsmpio.fm/Executive_Order/presidential_order_2015/national_unity_task_force.pdf

The new Chief of Mission of IOM, Mr. Simpson paid a Courtesy Call on Secretary of Foreign Affairs, Robert Lorin

Palikir, Pohnpei - On January 21, 2015 Mr. Charles Stuart Simpson, paid a courtesy call on Secretary Robert at the Department of Foreign Affairs. Mr. Simpson, is the successor of Mr. Ashley Carl who has moved from his position as Chief of Mission of International Organization for Migration (IOM) in Pohnpei to another position in the organization.

Mr. Simpson, a national of Australia, is currently the Chief of Mission of the IOM Mission in Maputo, Mozambique and has been with the organization since 2002 and has extensive experience in migration issues and IOM’s programs.

The IOM works to help ensure the orderly and humane management of migration, to promote international cooperation on migration issues, to assist in the search for practical solutions to migration problems, including, climate change and to provide humanitarian assistance to migrants in need.

The FSM Government looks forward to working closely with Mr. Simpson and his staff to further strengthen its relations with IOM. 

President Mori receives the People's Republic of China Ambassador to FSM, H.E. Li Jie

On January 21, 2015, H.E. Li Jie, Ambassador of the People’s Republic of China to the FSM presented the letter of recall and his letter of credence to President Emanuel (Manny) Mori in the President’s conference room after arriving on January 19, 2015. As a resident Ambassador in the FSM, Ambassador Li presented the copy of his credentials to Secretary Lorin Robert on the same day of 19 January to assume his function as the head of the Chinese Mission in the FSM.

President Mori opened dialogue by accepting and welcoming Ambassador Li to the FSM as the Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of the People’s Republic of China to the FSM. He further acknowledged and thanked the Chinese Government for the speedy replacement and indicated that it is an indication of a friendly cooperation and good working relations between the two governments.

The President assured Ambassador Li his desire to work closely with him and his government towards the fulfillment of mutual interests and aspiration. He reiterated that he stands ready to continue to work with China on regional and international issues and expressed his gratitude to China for its tremendous contributions among other generous financial assistance and services extended to the FSM.  President Mori also acknowledged China’s continuing effort in engagement with the Pacific Island Countries and congratulated China for successfully hosting the China-Pacific Island Leaders Meeting in Nadi, Fiji.

Ambassador Li thanked the President for accepting his letter of credence. He then conveyed greetings from President Xi Jinping to the Government and the people of the FSM.

Being the new Ambassador of China to the FSM, Ambassador Li considered to be lucky to represent his country in the FSM. He further stated that he will work closely with the FSM on the issues and decisions made by both President Mori and President Xi

FSM Vice President Alik L. Alik, Secretary of the National Department of Resources and Development Marion Henry, Deputy Secretary Samson Pretrick of the Department of Foreign Affairs, Chief of Staff Leo Falcam Jr., and staff from the President’s Office and Department of Foreign Affairs were in attendance during the presentation.