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FSM opens its borders after two years – COVID outbreak beats first plane back to Pohnpei and Kosrae be positive in the community.

It was the first evidence of any community spread of the virus in the country.

By Bill Jaynes The Kaselehlie Press August 1, 2022 Pohnpei, FSM—Today, FSM’s borders opened after nearly two and a half years of closure. Many residents of the FSM thought that would be the time when COVID also landed and began to spread in the FSM. But we were all wrong. COVID beat the first plane to the FSM and has been spreading like wildfire in the communities of Pohnpei and in Kosrae.

Chuuk and Yap States have, at least so far, dodged the bullet in their States, but several delegates to the Micronesia Expo, including Yap State Governor Salalu tested positive for the virus while they were in Pohnpei. On return to Yap from Pohnpei, 150 of 151 passengers aboard the Hapilmohol-2 field trip ship tested positive on board the vessel within Yap’s harbor where it was also reported that the ship was running low on food and water.

Photos courtesy of Pohnpei State Government

At noon on July 19, Pohnpei health officials had confirmation of COVID-19 in the community as well.

According to the FSM Government, off island testing results confirmed that the strain of COVID that is spreading is the Omicron BA5 variant, though they will continue to send samples to test for additional strains.

The Omicron variant is known to be highly contagious—a fast spreader, but its symptoms tend to be less severe than other strains.

The virus has spread rapidly in both States, though much more quickly in Pohnpei than in Kosrae. As of July 31, 4,264 people had tested positively for the virus in Pohnpei at test and treatment centers, and eight deaths had been attributed to the virus. Eight people in Pohnpei are still hospitalized, though eleven people have recovered and been released from the hospital, including FSM Vice President Yosiwo George. In Kosrae, 984 people The FSM’s border ARE open but Yap has established a seventested positive for the virus at test and treatment centers, and day quarantine period for all new arrivals. Chuuk, through an agreement with the FSM Government, will have only four flights this month and will one person has died, who at the time of death was positive for COVID-19. Two people were admitted to hospital who recovered and were released. There are currently no require testing on arrival. Those who test positive will be quarantined. people who remain in the Kosrae Hospital with the virus.

Arrival of COVID in the FSM NO lockdown According to an FSM Press Release, Kosrae residents first presented with the virus when influenza like illnesses began to appear on July 16, and 17. This was after a Norleen Oliver Deorio, Chair of the Pohnpei COVID Task Force said that several repatriation flight. 10 of 11 people tested by Kosrae medical personnel were found to Click here for continuation

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Use of PLB ensures family returns safely to Pohnpei Story by Chief Warrant Officer Sara team received a 406MHz PLB distress Muir alert from a contact located about 13 U.S. Coast Guard Forces Micronesia / miles northwest of Pohnpei.

Sector Guam The beacon was registered to a local July 29, 2022 in Pohnpei. JRSC Guam personnel SANTA RITA, Guam — Six residents contacted the owner and learned he’d of Pohnpei returned from a boating lent out his 23-foot white and black trip safely Friday, thanks to the efforts skiff with 40 horsepower motor to of a Pohnpei search and rescue liaison, friends. The boaters reportedly departed the U.S. Coast Guard, and a personal Pohnpei around 3 p.m., bound for Pakin locator beacon (PLB).

Atoll.

Responders located and towed the disabled vessel to safety following notification by the boaters using a PLB to mark and report their location, indicating a possible distress situation.

The JRSC Guam team immediately issued a SafetyNet broadcast and began initial investigations. They confirmed the vessel did not arrive as planned at Pakin Atoll through the vessel owner.

JRSC Guam personnel notified the “This case illustrates not only the value Pohnpei SAR liaison, who sought to of the PLB but also the importance of respond with a 30-foot response boat. having it registered,” said Lt. Cmdr. Field Cassiano, command duty officer at U.S. Coast Guard Forces Micronesia/Sector Guam.

“This is a real win and a textbook case for using a PLB. The distances involved in the Federated States of Micronesia are vast, and there are limited response resources. Using the PLB and the exact coordinates allowed us to vector responders directly and eliminate the need for an exhaustive search. Those hours saved can mean the difference between life and death. We appreciate the efforts of all our partners to get this family back safe.”

JRSC Guam also received aerial support from the U.S. Coast Guard Fourteenth District in the form of an HC-130 Hercules airplane and crew from Air Station Barbers Point, who would arrive on the scene by 4 p.m. Friday.

As crews prepared to deploy, the team at JSRC Guam continued to reach out to any partners who might be able to assist. The team sought to maximize the use of the PLB, which, once activated, has a battery life of around 24 hours.

Pohnpei Harbor without incident by 10 a.m. The Hercules crew, en route, returned to Hawaii.

The U.S. Coast Guard encourages all boaters always to carry adequate supplies, multiple means of communication, an Emergency Position Indicating Radio Beacon or PLB, and to leave word with friends or family when headed out on the water.

On Friday, word came back around 7:30 a.m. from the Pohnpei SAR liaison, reporting the responders located the vessel, thanks to the coordinates provided by the PLB, and all six people were present and well. The boat was towed back to

Just after 3:30 p.m. Thursday, the Joint Rescue SubCommand (JSRC) Guam

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Office of Insular Affairs Announces Palau and Yap Trench Expedition Team honored with $1,287,173 in Grant Support to the FSM for FY2022 reception hosted by Micronesian Voyaging Society and PICRC U.S. Department of the Interior’s Office of Education Fundto provide high school Supports management of marine protected areas, establishes a health communication network for the outer islands of Yap, provides educational opportunities for youth through robotics, and more

Palau International Coral Reef Center

Deep’.

July 22, 2022 Former President Tommy Remengesau, Jr., master navigator Sesario Sewralur, Victor Vescovo and the crew of the DSSV Pressure Drop gathered for a reception last Wednesday to celebrate their historic submersible dives into the Palau and Yap trenches.

“[Victor Vescovo is] someone who symbolizes our passion for the ocean, symbolizes the innovation to construct, build things, to get the warrior spirit of exploration and discovery” said former President Remengesau, Jr.

The reception was hosted by Micronesian Voyaging Society and Palau International Coral Reef Center. It was attended by President Surangel Whipps, Jr., Reklai and members of the Rubekul Belau, governors, Senators, Delegates and state legislators.

The expedition team had just returned from their ten-day voyage, which saw the divers descend over 26,000 feet in DSSV Pressure Drop’s submersible Limiting Factor, making them the first human beings to reach the bottoms of the Palau and Yap trenches.

The Rubekul Belau honored Vescovo with the traditional title “Madradilochel” in recognition of his contribution to Palau’s ocean exploration. The title roughly translates to ‘Messenger of the

Insular Affairs

students across all four states of the FSM with hands-on math and science instruction in the science, technology, engineering and math (STEM) realm. Many of the students are at remote, under-resourced schools where the Habele Robotics League represents the only experiential learning opportunity.

WASHINGTON – The U.S. Department of the Interior’s Office of Insular Affairs has announced $1,287,173 infiscal year 2022 Technical Assistance Program and Maintenance Assistance Program grant funding that will benefit the people of the Federated States of Micronesiathrough The Maintenance Assistance Program non-governmental organizations and public grants totaling $542,090 for fiscal year Dr. Nicole Yamase and Dr. Dawn Wright, semi-autonomous utilities.

2022 will be providedtothe following semithe first Micronesian and first African autonomous agencies in the Federated States American to descend the Challenger “This federal investment will benefit the of Micronesiaas follows: Deep, also gave short remarks during the FSM in a variety of ways that range from management of marine protected areas, to • $254,090 – Pohnpei Port reception. establishing a telecommunications network Authorityto procure emergency supplies “I that hope our youth will see that these for the outer islands of Yap, and expanding and equipment necessary to handle any individuals are proof that there is nothing solar energy capacity in Pohnpei,” said emergencies, whether day or night, and to too big for us to accomplish” said Dr. Deputy Assistant Secretary for Insular and help the PPA be safety compliant as required International Affairs KeoneNakoa. “The by the FAA and other entities related to Yamase. funding will also support a robotics program transportation and ports management. for youth in high schools across all four • $164,500 – Pohnpei Utilities DSSV Pressure Drop and the expedition states in the FSM. Together, these projects Corporation (PUC)to procure 24 new team have generously agreed to share help exemplify the depth and strength of the solar inverters and related equipment to their footage and scientific data from relationship that the United States shares bring online a currently defunct 600kW the dives with Palau International Coral with the people of the FSM.” photovoltaic system. The Pohnlangas solar Reef Center. farm feeds into PUC and is an important The Technical Assistance Program grants component of Pohnpei State’s renewable “We really welcome this opportunity and totaling $745,083 for fiscal year 2022 will energy target to become 50% sourced from the team’s willingness to share all their be provided to the following organizations renewable energy by 2030. information to increase our knowledge to benefit the Federated States of Micronesia • $123,500 – Yap State Public of Palau’s deep ocean” said Dr. Golbuu, as follows: Service Corporationto procure a backhoe and dump truck to conduct trenching the Center’s CEO. • $298,000 – Micronesia operations related to water and wastewater Conservation Trustto provide Protected management.

Area Network managers with the tools and capacity to effectively manage their More information about the U.S. Department respective protected areas. These efforts of the Interior’s Office of Insular Affairs can support the aim of the Micronesia Challenge be found at www.doi.gov/oia. For specific to effectively manage at least 50% of information about grants provided through marine and 30% of terrestrial resources the Office of Insular Affairs, visit www. across the Micronesia region by 2030. grants.gov and search Catalog of Federal Local communities and conservation Domestic Assistance (CFDA) # 15.875. partners havebeen establishing communitymanaged Protected Areas Networks (PAN) The Assistant Secretary of Insular and to aid recovery of fishstocks and biomass, International Affairs and the Office of maintain and improve watersheds and reef Insular Affairs (OIA) carry out the Secretary health, conserve biodiversity and of the Interior’s responsibilities for the U.S. build resilience against the impacts of territories of American Samoa, Guam, the climate change.

Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana • $247,083 – Falanruw Foundation Islands, and the U.S. Virgin Islands. for the Pandemic Readiness Project: Yap Additionally, OIA administers and oversees Outer Islands Public Safety/Emergency federal assistance under the Compacts of Station to install internet connected terminals Free Association to the Federated States of at a central point in key remote outer islands Micronesia, the Republic of the Marshall and connect them to the internet via satellite Islands, and the Republic of Palau. OIA for to enable 24/7 health and emergency also administers a discretionary Technical communications capacity between officials Assistance Program for all the insular areas. in the outer islands to State and National Find information about OIA and its work health and safety officials. on www.doi.gov/oia, Facebook, Twitter, • $200,000 – Habele Outer Islands Instagram, and YouTube.

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...Covid Continued from front page

“It was just kind of a given thing,” Deorio said. “Like, National wanted to hold it…

We didn’t meet, National and State.

I’m sure National was also meeting but then the State also met, and based on our risk communication, the adopted one…the guideline is that we should carry on business as normal as can be, but we manage COVID.” She said that everyone was required to wear masks and that masks were distributed at the events. This was before the fines were set in place.

months ago the Task Force changed its risk communication, the protocols that would take place in the event of community transmission of the virus to exclude “lockdown” as a response. This was in preparation for the eventuality that the borders would open as they did today.

She said that the plan was then to move from a COVID “free” environment to a COVID “safe” environment.

“During that time, we were supporting all of the delegations, and most of the In a case of miscommunication, the delegations are the ones that are included Madolenihmw government situated in our data,” she said of the first few days officers at their borders to operate a of community transmission of COVID. COVID checkpoint.

They waved “But then once we’re done with them, cars through the checkpoint that were then the locals began to come and then leaving Madolenihmw but stopped cars you see the rise and that’s when the that were coming into the municipality. surge of the local transmission really They required proof of vaccination and a happened.” negative COVID test.

Though FSM President David Panuelo, Deorio said the problem was the Pohnpei in Guam on his return trip from Task Force’s fault. She said that they Disneyland with his family and the had been so busy that they failed to “roll Pacific Islands Forum meetings in Suva, out the new risk communication to the Fiji, gave interviews to several local and municipalities and they weren’t aware international journalists, he would not that Madolenihmw’s plan still had the consent to an interview with us. “Given requirement for lock down. The check that COVID-19 has arrived in the FSM, points were only operational for two days we are unprepared to spend additional until the Pohnpei Task Force told them resources on exploring its origins. What they were operating contrary to Pohnpei’s is most important, now that the virus is plan. “‘Lockdown’ was the idea before here, is that we work together in keeping but you cannot lock down because how our country safe from it. What I ask is then would people access food and other that all of us, as Micronesians, continue key critical services,” she asked. to see each other as brothers and sisters, and to treat each other with love. We Though “lockdown” will not be are all in this together,” his prepared happening in the FSM, both according to statement said. The President spent some the Pohnpei Task Force’s plan of action of his time in Guam seeking additional and the FSM government’s policies, assistance for the FSM. Pohnpei did put a mask regulation in place. A person who is found to not be wearing a mask in a public place, as Test and Treat Centers setup – Pohnpei “public place” is defined by law, can reacts be fined $1000. Masks must be warn correctly covering both nose and mouth. The Pohnpei Task Force established Additionally, anyone caught spitting into four Test and Treat Centers: the Pohnpei anything but a sealable container can be State Hospital, PICS Gymnasium, the fined $250.

Community Health Center (Kolonia Dispensary), and Pohnlangas Elementary Public Gathering and the Micronesia School. Deorio said that they chose Expo Pohnlangas because of the five municipalities on the main island of There are no fines for public gatherings, Pohnpei, Madolenihmw residents had but officials caution against it. However, the lowest vaccination rate. She said the officials who cautioned from the start that they hope also to establish a center about public gatherings, did not choose in Kitti but due to COVID, staff numbers to cancel the remaining three days of are not currently high enough to open a the Micronesia Expo. FSM Department new center. of Health and Social Affairs Assistant Secretary Moses Pretrick said it was a Many businesses and government leadership decision, and that Pohnpei services have either closed or curtailed State had agreed to it. their hours of operation in Pohnpei since

July 19. “We are encouraging businesses and vital services to stay open,” she said.

“Businesses are closing but not because we have told them to close.” The closures are due to staff shortages as employees end up sick with the virus.

August 3-16, 2022

Kaselehlie Press

with COVID) then you have to meet the assessment team,” Oliver said. “They have these criteria where if you fit, like if your age fits (as one factor including other risk factors), they tally up the points.

That paper is forwarded to the physician who will look at it and treat you based on the assessment done. Because not everyone is getting treatment. Most of them are just being told to go back home, isolate, and just get Tylenol or something like that.” But without that assessment, some people who need treatment won’t get it.

The National Government announced that many of its employees, including cabinet members, had contracted the virus and were isolating at home. Many departments authorized work-at-home policies. Moses Pretrick of the FSM Department of Health and Social Affairs said this afternoon that employees should wait five days after testing positive before Pretrick said that drug treatments like returning to work in person.

Paxlovid that mitigate symptoms have to be administered within a few days of Before the Pohnpei Post Service began infection by the COVID virus in order to curtail its services, they were down to be effective. If a person doesn’t go to to only three employees to staff the the test and treat center, they cannot be Kolonia and Palikir Post Offices. The a candidate for that kind of treatment if schedule to receive packages at the they need it.

Post Office in Pohnpei is now between Mondays, Wednesdays, and Thursday Balance in decision to test important as from 8:00 AM to noon. Customers can well bring outgoing mail on Tuesday, and Friday between the same hours. That is But it is a matter of balance as well. expected to change as employees recover Many people have reported coming and return to work. down with COVID after testing negative at one of the Test and Treat centers.

A Pohnpei United Airlines employee Health officials caution people without said this afternoon that it is down seven symptoms or only very minor symptoms employees that service flights on landing from going to one of the centers because and that if they lose many more, they they could pick up the virus from people may have to shut down here until staff there who are already positive. Pretrick levels are back up. He said that United said that it is also possible to be tested Airlines policy is that employees must too early before the rapid antigen test can test negative for COVID before they can pick it up. come back to work.

Most people recovering – increases will Norleen O. Deorio agreed with our begin to slow assessment that the number of positive cases is likely higher than the Test and Most people are recovering. Though Treat centers have reported, perhaps the daily situation reports issued by substantially so, but said that it is difficult the FSM National Government and to tell how much higher. Many people the Pohnpei State Government have in Pohnpei have chosen not to go to one columns for recovered cases, that column of the four designated Test and Treatment is exclusively for people who required centers after they begin to experience hospitalization, a total of 18 for Pohnpei symptoms. with all but eight having recovered and dismissed so far. It doesn’t talk about the “Why should I go stand in line for two hundreds of people who have contracted hours just for them to tell me what the virus and have suffered through the I already know,” one man who was symptoms and have already re-entered suffering with a fever and painful body the community after isolation. aches said.

After just a few days, symptoms may Why go to a Test and Treat Center? disappear, but a person may still be positive for the virus. Some experts say Norleen is quick to point out that going that since Rapid Antigen Tests (RAT) can to a Test and Treatment center if a person be difficult to come by, the best day for comes down with flu like symptoms testing after infection is on Day 8. By is helpful to the medical community that time, many people will test negative in order to adjust response plans. But at which time it is safe to re-enter the it is also important to those who are community. infected. “When you go to the test and Continued on next page treat center (and are found to be positive

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...Covid (2) Continued from front page The FSM qualifies for free Rapid Antigen Tests. They can be delivered to your post office box. Check https:// www.covid.gov/tests for details.

Deorio says that based on progression of the virus in other Pacific Islands, the Task Force expects that increased numbers of infections will taper off after about six to eight weeks. She said that Pohnpei had projected approximately 5000 infections and 30 hospitalizations. However, after just two weeks the number of infections is already nearly at the level the State had thought they’d see before numbers taper off.

The Pohnpei State Situation reports shows a graph with a falloff in the last few days but those numbers are misleading since the first of the two represents only half a day of data, and the second represents a Sunday when only the Pohnpei State Hospital was available as a Test and Treat center.

She said that 75 percent of the Pohnpei population is vaccinated and encouraged people who are not vaccinated to do so immediately. “We thought we were seeing more people for boosters but we were surprised at the number of people there for their first dose,” she said. Since July 19, Pohnpei State has administered 795 first doses of the vaccine, 267 of those were Moderna which requires a second dose after 23 days. 528 of them were Pfizer which requires a second dose after 17 days according to Moses Pretrick.

Neither vaccine is fully effective until 14 days after the final dose.

“But still, come in,” Deorio said. “Better late than never.” (editor’s note: As this article was nearing completion, the Task Force posted another days’ worth of data again showing an increase and bringing cases to a total of just over 4,800. Positively, it notes that fifteen people have now been released from the hospital.

Also, just at press time, email notification from the Director of Pohnpei’s Department of Education came in saying that the Governor and the Pohnpei Task Force had met and they have agreed that the start of school will now be delayed until September 13 for Elementary Schools and September 5 for High Schools.)

UK reaffirms ocean governance partnership with Pacific Islands SPC UK

Suva, Fiji - On the 29th of July, the UK Government signed an agreement to continue their partnership with Pacific Island Countries through the UK-Pacific Extended Continental Shelf (ECS) Project to secure maritime zones. The UK will contribute an additional £351,000 [FJD 930,000] to the project, implemented by the Pacific Community (SPC).

The Pacific Community as the coordinator for the work of Maritime Boundaries alongside Pacific countries and territories recognises the critical importance this funding brings to the region and sovereign rights of nation states.

“Until these gaps in the world map are closed, Pacific Island countries may not be in a position to fully protect their interests and achieve their blue economy aspirations,” said Dr Paula Vivili, SPC Deputy Director-General Science and Capability.

“Establishing ownership of these ECS areas is crucial for the stability and development of Pacific Island countries.”

Pacific Island Countries (PICs) are the custodians of 20% of global maritime zones. To optimise the management, use and conservation of this vast ocean space, they require certainty over their maritime zones as defined by the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS). This includes the extended continental shelf (ECS) areas beyond their 200 nautical mile exclusive economic zones (EEZs).

Over the last year, a regional training session was convened, ECS information updated and formally launched on the new Pacific Maritime Boundaries Dashboard and, most significantly, Fiji a beneficiary of the project, has completed the preparation of its partial submission for the South Fiji Basin, a seabed area of approximately 226,000 square kilometres.

“This work has been more than 10 years in the making due to the substantial technical, scientific and legal nature of the work required for ECS submissions. We are extremely grateful to the UK Government and Pacific Community for their support as it has finally enabled us to complete this report.” said Lieutenant Commander Gerard Rokoua, a member of the Maritime Affairs Coordinating Committee.

In March this year, nine technical officers

from Fiji’s Maritime Affairs Coordinating Committee received specialised software training to map and define the extent of Fiji’s maritime zones, including extended continental shelf areas. Several months of technical work in partnership with a consultant have followed, and today the team are finalising the submission report for Government approval.

British High Commissioner to Fiji, Dr Brian Jones said, “I am delighted to continue UK partnership with this vital project for a second year. I am particularly pleased that our partnership over the last year has enabled Fiji to complete its partial ECS submission for the South Fiji Basin. This year, the project will continue to support Fiji, Vanuatu, Solomon Islands, and Tonga to secure the rights and responsibilities over their respective large ocean spaces. This will directly enable sustainable use of marine resources to generate income and create employment.”

Currently, there are 10 PICs with 9 ECS claims and 6 preliminary information notes at various stages awaiting examination by the international Commission on the Limits of the Continental Shelf (CLCS).

The Pacific ECS project contributes to the broader Pacific Maritime Boundaries programme of work coordinated by SPC and supported by a consortium of partners, including the Pacific Islands Forum Secretariat, the Office of the Pacific Ocean Commissioner, the Pacific Islands Forum Fisheries Agency (FFA), the Australian Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade (DFAT), Geoscience Australia, Attorney General’s Department- Australia, University of Sydney, New Zealand Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade (MFAT), GRIDArendal, as well as the European Union and Sweden through the Pacific European Union Marine Programme (PEUMP).

REQUEST FOR QUOTATION Date: 21 July 2022 The International Organization for Migration (IOM) is an intergovernmental organization established in 1951 and is committed to the principle that humane and orderly migration benefits both migrants and society.

In the framework of Typhoon Wutip Reconstruction Project, the IOM invites interested eligible Suppliers to submit Quotations for the supply and delivery of construction materials for New Houses in outer Northwest islands in Chuuk, FSM. More detailed information on this Request for quotation are posted on the following website: Supply and delivery of construction materials for New Houses in outer Northwest islands in Chuuk, FSM | International Organization for Migration (iom.int) Quotation must be submitted by email to skushchak@iom.int and sshrestha@ iom.int or in a sealed envelope and hand

delivered to Pohnpei Office with subject ‘Construction materials for New Houses in outer Northwest islands in Chuuk, FSM’ to: IOM Pohnpei Office Suite 2G, Pohn Umpomp Building Pohn Umpomp Place, Nett Municipality Quotations must be submitted on or before 22 August 2022 before 1600 hours Pohnpei time. Late Quotations will not be accepted.

Quotations shall be valid 60 days after deadline for submission.

IOM reserves the right to accept or reject any quotation, and to cancel the procurement process and reject all quotations at any time prior to award of Purchase Order or Contract, without thereby incurring any liability to the affected Supplier/s or any obligation to inform the affected Supplier/s of the ground for IOM’s action.

Very truly yours, Salvatore Sortino Chief of Mission IOM Micronesia

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Programme Officer (Private Sector Development) The Pacific Islands Forum Secretariat

Invest (PTI) network.

The Pacific Islands Forum Secretariat (Forum Secretariat) is the region’s premier political and economic policy organisation, with a vision of helping to create a region of peace, harmony, security, social inclusion and prosperity, so that all Pacific people can lead free, healthy, and productive lives.

To facilitate the above, the incumbent will be responsible for: • Responding quickly and effectively to requests from Executive and Member Countries for the provision of advice, correspondence, briefings, media statements and reporting; • Coordinating and organising private sector related meetings, workshops and training seminars including preparation of meeting and workshop papers and materials; • Providing technical and policy advice, as well as capacity building support on private sector issues, either directly or through consultants, development partners or other counterparts for the promotion of private sector development opportunities for the benefit of Member States; • Monitoring and reporting on mandates from Forum Ministers and Leaders; and • Developing and delivering work programs and budgets, and prepare periodic reports according to the Secretariat’s requirements.

The international organisation works to achieve this vision by fostering cooperation between governments, collaboration with international agencies, and by representing the interests of its members - including directly engaging with community members in order to identify pressing needs of the region.

The work of the Pacific Islands Forum Secretariat (PIFS) is guided by the 2050 Strategy as: “Our opportunity to engage with and shape the most significant dynamics and influences on our region, in order to secure our long-term wellbeing and prosperity. Through the Strategy, we will ensure we are resilient and ‘futureready’ by being able to anticipate, prepare for and respond to hazardous climate events, geopolitical and security trends, and other unanticipated shocks.”.

The 2050 Strategy is underpinned by the Blue Pacific narrative, endorsed by Forum Leaders in Samoa in 2017, which calls for a long-term regional commitment to act as one “Blue Continent” as the means to achieve its development aspirations.

The Leaders vision was that it would serve as the platform to reinforce and inspire the region in its shared stewardship of the Pacific Ocean, and to reaffirm the connections of Pacific peoples with their natural resources, environment, culture and livelihoods.

PIFS is an Employer of Choice in the region, aiming to recruit and employ staff based on merit and organisational needs, and ensures that employment selection upholds its values and commitment to Forum membership, gender balance and building a diverse and inclusive organisation. PIFS is committed to achieving gender balance and being fully representative of our member countries. Our workforce is currently over 50% female and we have representatives from twelve of the eighteen Forum member countries.

To achieve greater workforce representation from our member countries we strongly encourage applicants from the following countries to apply: Federated States of Micronesia, French Polynesia, Nauru, Niue, New Caledonia and Palau.

The Opportunity The Forum Secretariat is looking for a Programme Officer (Private Sector Development) to join the team in Suva, Fiji.

Recognising the severe economic impact of COVID-19 on the region’s private sector, this role will play a critical part in supporting the economic recovery efforts of Member States.

The officer will report to the Director Programmes& Initiatives and assist in providing technical support and advice to Forum Member Countries, with a focus on the private sector, in accessing market access opportunities from a range of trade agreements including SPARTECA, PICTA, PACER Plus and WTO Agreements as well as through the Pacific Trade and

The Secretariat seeks a strategic and proficient individual with a university degree (Bachelor’s degree or equivalent) in the fields of Business Administration, Commerce, Economics, Marketing or similar) with at least 5 years relevant work experience dealing with trade and economic research, private sector development and related policy issues in Forum Island Countries or in a similar environment. Candidate with strong analytical skills and understanding of challenges faced by the private sector in the Pacific region and understanding of broader development and sectoral issues (social, gender, etc) would be an advantage.

The Benefits The appointment carries a competitive remuneration and benefits package including medical and life insurance.

The starting salary will be in the range of SDR 31,020 to SDR 34,897 per annum. At the 1 June 2022 exchange rate this salary range was equivalent to FJD90,968 to FJD102,337. For non-Fijian nationals, this salary may be tax-free.To be eligible for this position, the applicant must be a national of a Forum member country*. Applicants must be willing to travel periodically via economy class.

Interested applicants are encouraged to apply through our website: www.forumsec.orgwhere an information package containing the job description and remuneration details is also available. Candidates must include in either their application or Curriculum Vitae the full contact details of three referees.The Forum Secretariat is an Equal Opportunity Employer.Deadline for applications is at 5pm (Fiji time), 19 August 2022. * Member States of the Pacific Islands Forum: Australia, Cook Islands, Federated States of Micronesia, Fiji, French Polynesia, Kiribati, Nauru, New Caledonia, New Zealand, Niue, Palau, Papua New Guinea, Republic of the Marshall Islands, Samoa, Solomon Islands, Tonga, Tuvalu, and Vanuatu.

August 3-16, 2022

Kaselehlie Press

The Ahmadiyya Muslim Community gives a helping hand to Kosraean travellers On July 31st, news quickly spread on social media regarding stranded travellersen route to Kosrae. After the Micronesia Expo, two hundred travellers from Kosrae were slated to return to their island on the 30th of July, but their trip was ultimately postponed due to news of the captain feeling unwell. With the uncertainty of not knowing when they would be able to start their journey, all two hundred people on board were left without food and water, not being able to leave the ship. The biggest concern arose from the parents on board with young children, and elderly participants of the expo.

After seeing multiple reports on social media, the Imam of the Ahmadiyya Muslim Community, Serjeel Ahmed, reached out to the Kosraean community, with offer to help with food and supplies for the journey ahead. The same day, supplies for all two hundred people on board were delivered, including staples such as rice, chicken, snacks for kids, water, and other supplies according to the needs of those on board.

This small occurrence is an everyday example of the power of inter-religious cooperation, and how mankind can come together in times of need to help one another.

The Ahmadiyya Muslim community has been established in the FSM for well over two decades, and has presence is both Pohnpei and Kosrae state. Its foundations remain well rooted in spreading a message of peace, love, and tolerance for all.

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78th Liberation Day Cleanup Barrigada Guam Stake Helping Hands partner with Guam cleanup

The Church of Jesus Christ of Latterday Saints

On Saturday, July 16th, youth of the Barrigada Stake Helping Hands volunteered for a cleanup project on a section of Route 8 in Maite. This is in conjunction with the 78th Liberation Day parade and festivities to be held on July 21st.

The Church of Jesus Christ of Latterday Saints reached out to its youth to participate in an initiative sponsored by the Island wide Beautification Task Force and the governor’s summer youth employment Program. The Governor has reached out to all the youth on the island as Guam is gearing up for their Liberation Day Parade and festivities.

They have been asked to help beautify the island for this upcoming holiday.

Youth and other youth leaders donned their Helping Hands project vests and hit the road. You wouldn’t believe the trash they found, to include a hub cap.

People honk as they pass by, showing their support of the work they are doing to help keep the road-way clean. You can see from the smiles on their faces, that they are having a good time and enjoy offering their service.

“Guam’s young people have demonstrated their capability and desire to contribute their services to our island, and their initiative to spearhead these valued cleanups builds on the leadership experience they are gaining through our Summer Youth employment Program.”

Governor Lou Leon Guerrero said in a news release.

Seeking assistance in contacting FORMER EMPLOYEES OF MOBIL OIL MICRONESIA, INC. Matam Charles IfenukKirasy Elab James William Iriarte Gaan Aloysius Gabriel Caldino Lemuel Welsiro Fred Lewis SaliiAnhel Lance Meteolchol Lang Jikey If you know these individuals or know family or friends that can help us, please ask them to contact ASC Trust Micronesia at +(691) 320 7470 or info@asctrust.com

Salvation Army Guam receives needed donation from LDS Church The Church of Jesus Christ of Latterday Saints Non-profit and charity organizations find themselves with a reduction in their donations.

The Church of Jesus Christ of Latterday Saints, having donated previously to the Salvation Army, is aware of this need.

The Church’s Micronesia Guam Welfare and Self-reliance department heard of the need to replenish the Salvation Army Guam's pantry which furnishes food to those in need. To alleviate the lack of donations, the Church donated $5,000 to the Salvation Army, to help restock their pantry.

The Acosta’s were gracious enough to give a tour of their facility including their pantry and the attached Lighthouse Recovery Center (LRC). LRC Director Valerie Reyes gave a tour of her building and introduced us to her team. The aroma of fresh baked cookies filled the air as we met several of her clients who were busy finishing up their baking of peanut butter chocolate chip cookies. As we left, we were offered a cookie sample, still warm from the oven.

The Church believes in the two great commandments, the second of which is to love thy neighbor as thyself. Church members not

only give tithes but also offerings which make this kind of donation possible.

This donation which helps to restock theirpantry will bless the lives of some of those in need. All donated monies go to fill this pantry. Clients from throughout the community of Guam seek assistance from the Salvation Army.

The Salvation Army cannot successfully help others without generous donations.

The Church welcomes partnering with the Salvation Army and supporting their program to take care of the less fortunate.

We feel this is a good partnership, where we can support what they do best.

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PICRC and JICA finalize project design for Coastal Ecosystem Management Project Palau International Coral Reef Center August 1, 2022 The Palau International Coral Reef Center (PICRC) and the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) met last week to approve the project design for their joint coastal ecosystem management project.

Senior Advisor Dr. Noriaki Sakaguchi and Special Advisor Reiko Iitsuka visited Palau from JICA Headquarters on a mission to discuss the project design with PICRC and other agencies.

After the discussions, the project design was agreed to and finalized by JICA and PICRC. Dr. Yimnang Golbuu, CEO of PICRC and Dr. Sakaguchi signed the meeting minutes that captured the finalized project design during the last day of the mission to Palau The coastal ecosystem management project aims to increase the resilience of Palau’s coastal ecosystems to climate change and environmental threats.

The finalized project design will guide the project’s implementation over the next three years. It consists of four key components: an integrated coastal ecosystem management system, mangrove monitoring and management, soil run-off and sedimentation monitoring and communication, education and public awareness programs.

“We’re grateful for JICA’s support in this project to enhance our environmental resilience in Palau” said Geraldine Rengiil, PICRC’s Research Director and the Project’s Manager. “Now that the project design is finalized, we’re looking forward to focusing on implementation.”

Overall, this work will contribute to the long-term sustainability of Palau’s communities, environment, and livelihoods in the face of future challenges.

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Two-day iStop workshop vital for combatting invasive alien species The need to establish effective measures to safeguard biodiversity against invasive alien species (IAS) remains a top priority for the natural resource managers on Pohnpei State.

The Invasive Species Taskforce of Pohnpei (iSTOP) conducted a two-day workshop during July 14-15, 2022 at the United States Department of AgricultureNatural Resource Conservation Services Office in Kolonia, Pohnpei. The purpose of the workshop was to review and update its Strategic Action Plan (SAP). The workshop hosted over 20 participants from relevant stakeholders from all levels of Government, Civil Society Organization and community members on Pohnpei State.

The workshop highlighted Pohnpei’s commitment to protecting its biodiversity from potential threats of new IAS species and managing highly prioritized IAS that have established populations in local ecosystems throughout the state of Pohnpei. The workshop provided stakeholders the opportunity to update its management goals for prioritized IAS species and appraise the current techniques used to manage established IAS populations on Pohnpei State.

New objectives include eradication of certain IAS species such as the Chain of love (Antigonon leptopus), Bengal trumpet vine (Thunbergia grandiflora) and Koster’s curse (Clidemia hirta). iSTOP acknowledged that while eradication of certain species are beyond its operational capacity, there are existing control

methodologies to prevent widespread dispersal for a list of established IAS species. The list includes the African tulip (Spathodea campanulata), Arrowhead vine (Syngonium padophyllum) and Golden pothos (Epipremnum pinnatum).

In order to prevent IAS introductions at Pohnpei State’s ports, iSTOP has prioritized collaborative partnerships with Plant and Animal Quarantine Services to improve Biosecurity plans and protocols. iSTOP is also committed to working with National, State and Local Governments to strengthen financing and institutionalization of governance framework for biosecurity.

The SAP, once endorsed, will serve as Pohnpei State’s contribution to our national commitments to the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals. iSTOP acknowledges funding support from the Micronesia Conservation Trust and the FSM Department of Resources and Development’s IAS Project, funded by the Global Environment Facility through the United Nations Development Programme.

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Office of Insular Affairs announces $528,574 in grant support to the Republic of Palau for FY2022 To conduct a HIES survey and develop physical education in schools U.S. Department of the Interior’s Office of Insular Affairs July 27, 2022 WASHINGTON – The U.S. Department of the Interior’s Office of Insular Affairs has announced $528,574 infiscal year 2022 Technical Assistance Programgrant funding for the government of the Republic of Palauthat will be used to conduct a Household Income Expenditure Survey and support the development of a physical education program in the public schools in Palau.

“The federal support provided to Palau will help provide a better understanding of the economic situation of the Palauan population and inform leadership as they shape policy for their people,”said Deputy Assistant Secretary for Insular and International Affairs Keone

Nakoa. “OIA funds will also invest in a healthyfuture forPalau’s people through the development of a robust physical education program for Palauan students.”

The Technical Assistance Program grants totaling $528,574for fiscal year 2022 will be provided to the following organizations to benefit the Republic of Palau. Please note that Palau did not submit any applications for Maintenance Assistance Program funding this year.

• $402,574 – Office of Planning and Statistics to conduct a 2022/2023 Household Income and Expenditure Survey. The last HIES in Palau completed was in 2014 prior to the pandemic which took a toll on the tourism industry in Palau. The HIES provides indicators that help ascertain

living standards, access to services, and poverty levels.

• $126,000 – Ministry of Education for the Building a Healthier Palau project to implement a comprehensive physical education program in the schools to increase the number of teachers trained in physical education and increase daily physical activity among the more than 1,600 school children in Palau.

More information about the U.S. Department of the Interior’s Office of Insular Affairs can be found at www.doi. gov/oia. For specific information about grants provided through the Office of Insular Affairs, visit www.grants.gov and search Catalog of Federal Domestic Assistance (CFDA) # 15.875.

The Assistant Secretary of Insular and International Affairs and the Office of Insular Affairs (OIA) carry out the Secretary of the Interior’s responsibilities for the U.S. territories of American Samoa, Guam, the Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands, and the U.S. Virgin Islands. Additionally, OIA administers and oversees federal assistance under the Compacts of Free Association to the Federated States of Micronesia, the Republic of the Marshall Islands, and the Republic of Palau. OIA also administers a discretionary Technical Assistance Program for all the insular areas. Find information about OIA and its work on www.doi.gov/oia, Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, and YouTube.

United States and Palau announce establishment of the Palau Advisory Group on Economic Reform Fulfilling an important aspect of the compact relationship U.S. Department of the Interior’s Office of Insular Affairs July 28, 2022 WASHINGTON – The United States and Republic of Palau Governments have confirmed the nomination and selection of five individuals to fully constitute the Palau Advisory Group on Economic Reform, consistent with the Palau Compact Review Agreement, as amended.

“The United States government has worked successfully with Palau to give consideration to the mix of expertise that would most benefit the work of the bilateral Advisory Group,” said Deputy Assistant Secretary for Insular and International Affairs Keone Nakoa, “Combined, the five members of the newly constituted Advisory Group on Economic Reform, bring years of expertise, experience, and economic knowledgeto bear in carrying out theirimportant mission. I look forward to their progress at the initial meeting and eventually seeing their full report and recommendations.”

“The United States has demonstrated the importance to which it attaches the relationship we share under the Compact

of Free Association, by the quality and the caliber of its nominees and through its support of the Secretariat,” said Palau Finance Minister and Economic Reform Advisory Group member Kaleb Udui, Jr. “Palau is appreciative of this commitment and dedication, and we look forward to continued partnership with the United States.”

The Advisory Group on Economic Reform will contribute to the long-term economic sustainability and resilience of Palau. Each government designated two members, with a fifth member chosen by the United States from a list of recommendations by Palau. As requested by the Palau Government, Interior’s Office of Insular Affairs is providing limited funding for a Secretariat to provide administrative support to the Advisory Group on Economic Reform.

Themembers of the Palau Advisory Group on Economic Reform will be announced at a later date.

The governments have initiated consultations on commencement of proceedings of the Advisory Group on Economic Reform, and both sides plan to begin meetings potentially as early

as August. Currently constituted, the advisory group shall terminate at the end of fiscal year 2023, unless otherwise agreed by the two governments.

The Palau Compact Review agreement with the related appendices and amendment may be accessed through the Office of Insular Affairs website under Executive Orders and Public Laws/Compacts of Free Association at:https:// w w w. d o i . g o v / o i a / budget/authoritiespublic-law.

The Assistant Secretary of Insular and International Affairs and the Office of Insular Affairs (OIA) carry out the Secretary of the Interior’s responsibilities for the U.S. territories of American Samoa, Guam, the Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands, and the U.S. Virgin Islands.

Additionally, OIA administers and

oversees federal assistance under the Compacts of Free Association to the Federated States of Micronesia, the Republic of the Marshall Islands, and the Republic of Palau. OIA also administers a discretionary Technical Assistance Program for all the insular areas. Find information about OIA and its work on www.doi.gov/oia, Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, and YouTube.

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www.vitalenergy.fm

Office of Insular Affairs announces $1.5 Million in grant funding to the Republic of the Marshall Islands for FY2022 Supports grant management capacity, improves quality of life in the outer atolls, and supports the local Red Cross U.S. Department of the Interior’s Office of Insular Affairs August 1, 2022 WASHINGTON – The U.S. Department of the Interior’s Office of Insular Affairs has announced $1,498,866 infiscal year 2022 Technical Assistance Program (TAP)and Maintenance Assistance Program (MAP)grant funding that will benefit the Republic of the Marshall Islandsthrough local governments, the local utility, and a non-governmental organization.

“Funds will support one of the RMI’s national strategic goals,which is to provide access to safe drinking water and safe sanitation systems, in this case Wotje and Maloelap, two atolls that are far from the RMI capitol,”said Deputy Assistant Secretary for Insular and International Affairs KeoneNakoa.“Funds will also support cultural and vocational training for youth, rebuild the Red Cross building in Majuro, and support training for grant

writing and grant reporting for funds from the federal government and other sources.”

•

The Technical Assistance Program grants totaling $750,000 forfiscal year 2022 will be provided as follows: •

•

•

$239,500 –Wotje Atoll Local Governmentto acquire solar water desalination systems for the drought-prone atoll that has no natural sources of fresh water beyond rain. $200,500 –Maloelap Atoll Local Governmentto acquire prefabricatedsanitary toilets for 137 households and provide access to safe and improved sanitation for the atoll community. $200,000 – Department of Financeto provide training for government and non-government officials in grant writing and grant management training for all federal government and other funding sources.

$110,000 –WaanAelonin Majel(Canoes of the Marshall Islands)non-profit organization that promotes canoe building and sailing, promoting traditional skills retention and cultural practices among Marshallese youth.

The Maintenance Assistance Program grants totaling $748,866 for fiscal year 2022 will be providedas follows: •

•

$390,122 –Marshall Islands Red Cross Society to remodel the existing Red Cross building and provide space for emergency training. The remodeled building will continue to serve as an evacuation center in case of emergencies or King Tides. $358,744 –Majuro Atoll Waste Company for the acquisition of a garbage truck.

More information about the U.S. Department of the Interior’s Office of Insular Affairs can be found at www.doi.

gov/oia. For specific information about grants provided through the Office of Insular Affairs, visit www.grants.gov and search Catalog of Federal Domestic Assistance (CFDA) #15.875.

The Assistant Secretary of Insular and International Affairs and the Office of Insular Affairs (OIA) carry out the Secretary of the Interior’s responsibilities for the U.S. territories of American Samoa, Guam, the Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands, and the U.S. Virgin Islands. Additionally, OIA administers and oversees federal assistance under the Compacts of Free Association to the Federated States of Micronesia, the Republic of the Marshall Islands, and the Republic of Palau.

OIA also administers a discretionary Technical Assistance Program for all the Insular Areas. Find information about OIA and its work on www.doi.gov/ oia, Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, and YouTube.

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Opinion Editorial transcended traditional international “A Deep and Enduring Partnership long security cooperation. During the last two years, we have seen it evolve into a unique integration of two homelands – My Time as United States into one, strengthening both in a time of uncertainty and global pandemic. In July Ambassador to the FSM” 2021, INDOPACOM highlighted this As I have just completed my posting as U.S. Ambassador to the Federated States of Micronesia, it is with both sadness and joy I say goodbye to the people of the FSM. We have journeyed together for two-and-a-half years and despite the unique challenges of this period, we have achieved much in this time. We have made the great partnership between the FSM and the United States even stronger, built upon the bedrock of our shared values of democracy, representative government, and our respect for all.

Let us take a moment to celebrate the power and depth of our partnership, how we have worked together on shared challenges, and the breadth of our mutual achievements: The COVID-19 pandemic has defined much of the last two years globally. It is with resolve we work together to deal with community spread in the FSM. The delayed entry of COVID-19 into the FSM has allowed time for effective vaccines and new therapeutics to be developed.

Since January 2020, the United States government has coordinated with the four state governments and the national government, providing vaccines to create protection against the COVID-19 virus.

We continue this support today, providing therapeutics, test kits, and medical supplies to the FSM. CDC/HHS teams have arrived in Kosrae and Pohnpei and will work closely with their state governments to further support efforts here in-country. Our Embassy has taken an active role in community health, and will build upon our four embassy vaccination drives where more than six hundred people received vaccines. With the help of the U.S. Department of Defense, we now have a new “Vax Van” mobile unit, which travels to municipalities throughout Pohnpei for safe and convenient ongoing vaccinations provided by the State of Pohnpei Health Department.

One of the important U.S. Government efforts during my posting was the restart of repatriation flights. Forty-three FSM citizens and fourteen diplomats and their families entered the country on two flights last May, with invaluable assistance from U.S. Coast Guard District 14 who provided aircraft and crew, and Sector Guam for their logistical support.

While COVID-19 has filled many headlines, we continue to work together on FSM-wide public health initiatives.

A resolution passed by the FSM’s 22 nd Congress included a $250,000 contribution by the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services to support children and families in the FSM, which includes funding for telehealth to reach families in remote locations.

The Department of Interior is one of the most underappreciated contributors to our work here. In addition to the annual COFA contributions to the FSM, there are grants that cover our work together in so many important areas: support for airplanes and airports for travel between the states, and building capacity at the radio stations for emergency, as well as regular broadcasting, to name a few.

Climate Change and Climate Action are topics of great importance. Your experts in government and your people raised concerns and we listened. Many people have worked together to raise awareness of encroaching climate change and fund efforts to mitigate climate-related challenges. To illustrate this long-term partnership, the U.S. Government has provided nearly $79 million in disaster and reconstruction assistance to the FSM since 2008. The United States will continue to drive collective and sustainable action to fight the climate crisis together.

In my time here, I have learned much about the cultural and social importance of the ocean to islanders, the importance of tuna and other ocean resources to Micronesians, and centrality of the one million square miles of ocean within FSM borders to the world’s food security. I am proud of our work together to protect this rich maritime patrimony. For example, USAID’s “Our Fish Our Future’” and “Pacific Coastal Fisheries Management and Compliance” are two five-year regional projects totalling $21 million dollars that have begun to address illegal, unreported, and unregulated fishing, and create sustainable coastal fisheries.

Regarding security and defense, the FSM’s relationship with the U.S. IndoPacific Command (INDOPACOM) has

shared commitment through the inclusion of the FSM in the INDOPACOM “Pacific Homeland” for defense. We have also continued to work closely with the FSM on law enforcement, maritime security, and border protection capacity-building. As COVID travel restrictions lift, long awaited training and equipping programs under the U.S. National Defense Authorization Act will deliver maritime surveillance drones, firearms, airfield logistics equipment, and numerous law enforcement training events.

The broad contours of the U.S.-FSM partnership include celebrating a joyous FSM 35th Anniversary last year, and other signature events of our shared story. We cherish the service of many FSM citizens in the U.S. Armed Forces, more per capita than any U.S. state. We also take time to remember those we have lost. We have joined FSM veterans to recognize and appreciate the FSM’s consistent and strong representation in the U.S. Armed Forces and in May completed our annual Memorial Day ceremony, laying ceremonial wreaths at sea to honor the men and women of both nations who made the ultimate sacrifice.

One of the things I am most proud of is championing women’s leadership, entrepreneurship, and empowerment, removing the barriers of gender equality, and addressing some of the challenges women face in their daily lives. Partnering with the amazing women and girls of the FSM has been so special, and I look forward to seeing women here continue to enter more leadership roles across society.

I fondly recall the first day we restarted the Girl Scouts of Pohnpei in May 2020, and it’s been a pleasure to see the girls grow and develop, and provide so much to the community with their service. Hosting the panel discussion with women and girls for International Women’s Day this year, raising awareness through our Black Out Violence community awareness walks with local women; meeting with traditional women (and men) leaders, and funding female small business entrepreneurship are just a small part of the engagement and partnering I have done with women.

We have also worked with other key partners. One of the most important partnerships is with our Japanese and Australian colleagues to fund the $80

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million extension of the East Micronesia Cable, which will provide high speed broadband to Kosrae state and provide backup access to the World Wide Web for all of the FSM, thus assuring reliable connectivity with the world.

COFA negotiations are an important part of our relationship going forward. In response to the high priority the Biden Administration places on these negotiations, the appointment of a presidential special envoy as head negotiator speaks to our understanding of the critical, time sensitive nature of these negotiations.

American Waves is our weekly radio program and broadcast live on State’s public radio as well as Soundcloud. With almost one hundred shows completed, it has become a great source of American music, interviews with leaders in all areas of FSM society, and a timely summary of the most important news about the U.S. Government’s work in the FSM. Due to your interest and participation, the U.S. Embassy’s Facebook page has grown greatly in membership in my time here, and my team has worked to make it a place where we share our activities, serve the community, and work to strengthen our partnership.

Before I say farewell, I want to extend my utmost appreciation to the government and people of the Federated States of Micronesia. I have truly enjoyed the warmth of your hospitality and kindness.

This might be the end of my time with the U.S. Embassy, but it is definitely not the end of our friendship.

I will continue my work with the FSM, as well as with other countries in the region.

I have gratefully accepted the nomination

by President Joe Biden to be Assistant Secretary of the Department of Interior’s Office of Insular and International Affairs.

In this new position, I will continue our work to support the lives and livelihoods of people of your country. I am honored to have served in Micronesia and look forward to seeing you again in the future.

While excited about my new opportunity, I am also sad to be saying goodbye to the amazing people here in FSM, a place I will keep close to my heart forever.

Muchísimas Gracias, Kalahngan, Kinisou chapur, Kulo Mulap and Kammagar!

Carmen G. Cantor