KPress Vol23 Iss 08 - 15 March 23

Outgoing FSM President Panuelo warns FSM leaders of Chinese Political Warfare in the FSM Proposes switching diplomatic ties to Taiwan

By Bill Jaynes The Kaselehlie Press

March 10, 2023

FSM—On the day after the election that made it clear that FSM’s President David W. Panuelo would not be serving another term, he sent an explosive 6500-word letter to FSM National and State leaders urging them to be aware that the People’s Republic of China is engaging in Political Warfare in the FSM—warfare that threatens the FSM’s very sovereignty.

The letter was intended to be a private communication to each of the FSM’s State Governors, and the speakers of FSM legislature including Wesley Simina, Speaker of the FSM Congress who may become the next President of the FSM. The

letter went directly to the intended recipients and specifically not through any of their staff members, but by mid-morning today the letter had leaked and a foreign journalist posted the entire letter online. Given the list of recipients and the way in which the letter was sent, one of the elected leaders must have leaked the article to the press for unknown but potentially guessable reasons.

It is not the first time that the President has given warnings about China’s activities in the Pacific Island Countries (PICs). Last year, another leaked letter to the leaders of all of the PICs from President Panuelo warned about the possible ramifications of China’s proposed Common Development Vision. At that time, he warned that China

President demands resignations from three cabinet membersrecalls FSM Ambassador to the U.S.

By Bill Jaynes

The Kaselehlie Press

March 10, 2023

FSM— On March 8, the day following the FSM’s General Elections, President David W. Panuelo “instructed” two of his cabinet members, an undersecretary, and the FSM Ambassador to the FSM to submit their resignations effective immediately, and to do so within “the next 24 hours”. The Office of the President did not release any of its customary and ubiquitous press releases regarding his decision, and none of the letters provided a reason. The President did include a short

line in a letter regarding the forced resignations (see front page article). But that letter was intended to be read ONLY by FSM’s top elected officials. He provided no reasons, and even the line mentioning the terminations was cryptic, leaving the readers to decide which one or how many of the four the line applied to.

On the list of those who received instructions to tender their resignations were Secretary for the Department of Justice Joses Gallen, Postmaster General Ginger Mida, and Deputy Secretary for the Department of Foreign Affairs Ricky Cantero. The President also recalled FSM

Ambassador to the United States Akillino Susaia. All of the positions required advice and consent of the Congress, but each one served at the pleasure of the President.

addition to his position as Deputy Secretary for the Department of

Secretary for the Department of Justice Joses Gallen

In

Deputy Secretary for the Department of Foreign Affairs, Ricky Cantero

Postmaster General Ginger Mida FSM Ambassador to the United States, Akillino Susaia

Click here for continuation

FSM voters return all but two Senators to their seats – two elected Senators

Postage

By Bill Jaynes The Kaselehlie Press

March 10, 2023

FSM—On March 7, voters in the FSM went to the polls to select the members of the next FSM Congress. Today, National Election Office Director Ausen T. Lambert transmitted the unofficial results of the election to FSM President David Panuelo. Deputy Director Esmy Musrasrik Panuelo said that the results should be certified by the end of March 13.

Without asking each State’s election office to dig up previous numbers, Deputy Director Panuelo could not quantify the exact difference between the previous year’s elections in terms of quantity of mail-in ballots received but described it as “significantly” fewer. Only 43 mail-in ballots were received for Chuuk. Kosrae mail-ins received were 14, and Pohnpei had 61. Yap had not a single mail-in ballot.

Panuelo said that the National Election Office mailed all requested mail-in ballot forms by the mandated deadline of February 5. However, despite what the FSM’s former Postmaster was told by United Airlines early on after the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) grounded Asia Pacific Airlines (APA), the subcontractor to United Airlines to carry the mail and other freight to the FSM, mail delivery HAS been seriously hampered. Jody Colson in Chuuk said that State had received only 24 packages since the FAA grounded APA in early February. Colson is a pastor and not an employee of the Post Office. He has been operating on word of mouth from his contacts at United and at the Post Office and though he is not

limits receipt and return of mail in ballots

authoritative, the issue is a real one. There is no way to be able to determine how the election would actually have turned out had ballots been delivered and received by mail.

The postal slowdown has many worried about many other items people rely on for their daily lives beyond the election, but the current, most tangible evidence that it is a huge problem is the significant decrease in received ballots from what is likely more than a third of FSM’s population living outside of the FSM.

One potential qualified voter in the FSM had planned to vote in his very first FSM election but his ballot never came by mail and so he was deprived of that opportunity. Many others have expressed similar experiences.

The National Election Office followed all rules properly but many say that a change is needed for off-island access to the FSM’s democratic process. The election was observed for its conduct by observers designated by the Pacific Islands Forum.

In Chuuk, with 12,756 votes, Wesley W. Simina won the election for the AtLarge four-year seat over challengers Gillian Doone who won 3,711 votes, and Nakatama Sana who garnered 3,693 votes. Voters from Election District 1, The Mortlock region, decided to return Florencio Singkoro Harper to the two-year seat with a vote of 2,940 over challenger Juan K. Martin who had a vote total of 563. For District 2, the Northern Namoneas, voters returned Victor Vicky Gouland to the two-year seat with a vote of 3,262 over Traniro K. Killion with 277 votes.

The Southern Namaneas region, Election District very closely decided to return Dr. Perpetua S. Konman to the two-year seat with a vote total of 3,572 over Myron S. Hashiguchi’s 3,280. Sitting District 4 Senator Tiwiter H. Aritos ran opposed for the Faichuuk region. Robson U. Romolow will return to Congress for the Northwest region, ED 5 with a vote of 1,155 over challengers’ vote totals of 370 for Ruhlpin Micky, and 580 for Zander Reflong.

Kosrae voters returned sitting Vice President Aren B. Palik to the AtLarge four-year seat with a vote of 1,836 votes over challenger Yoslyn G. Sigrah who had 1,029 votes. Paliknoa Welly ran for the two-year seat unopposed and will be returning to Congress.

In Pohnpei, three challengers ran in opposition to sitting At Large four-year term Senator Peter M. Christian. None were successful and with 4,467 votes, he will return to his seat. Challenger David W. Panuelo had 2,045 votes. Welson Panuel won 2,225 votes. William N. Kostka was the closest to Senator Christian’s total with 3,906 votes. For Election District 1, Merlynn A. Alfonso unseated two-year seat incumbent Ferny S. Perman with a vote total of 2,128 over Perman’s. Alfonso is the first woman that Pohnpei has ever selected to the FSM Congress. Quincy Lawrence came out on top in Election District 2 with a vote of 3,057, unseating incumbent Don G. Neth who had a vote total of 2,064. Senator Esmond Moses’ 2,159 votes will return him to the two-year seat for Election District

3. Contender Erick Paul had a vote total of 1,531.

In Yap, sitting Senator Joseph Urusemal will return to the four-year At Large Seat with a vote of 2,110. Challenger Fidelis T. Fanoway garnered 168 votes. Veteran Senator Issac V. Figir ran unopposed and will be returning to serve as the two-year representative for Yap.

are female

slowdown seriously

Pohnpei Women celebrate advances in gender equity in International Women’s Day celebration

By Bill Jaynes

The Kaselehlie Press

March 8, 2023

Pohnpei—When people in Pohnpei think of International Women’s Day, most thoughts turn to dancing, and today’s celebration at the Kolonia Gymnasium certainly had that in plenty. For good reason, the gathered women had a great deal to be happy about. For the women, this particular day is a good reason to celebrate the many accomplishments of the year.

Master of Ceremonies Emeliana Musrasrik outlined just a few of those accomplishments during her speech today. They could celebrate:

• The completion of FSM National Early Childhood Consultations in Pohnpei and Kosrae in partnership with UNICEF and the FSM National government, resulting in Maternity leave policies.

• The partnership between the women, UNICEF, and the Pohnpei Rotary club for menstrual health kits

• They petitioned for and got passage of State Law 10L-75-22, declaring March 8 as Pohnpei State International Women’s Day as a legal holiday.

• They sponsored the passage of the Pohnpei State Family Protection Law

• There is pending legislation with APIL that was sponsored by the Pohnpei State Legislature on cervical cancer

• The women petitioned for and got a Pohnpei State Maternity Leave law that became effective just a few months ago on October 1, 2022

• They received USAID grant assistance for the renovation of the Pohnpei Women’s Council Nahs, water catchment, and a sink.

• The US Embassy and the US Military are involved in the renovation of the Pohnpei Women’s Council Center in Kolonia

• They are the recipient of an FSM pilot project for solar air conditioning at the Pohnpei Women’s Center

• They were the recipient of a NonCommunicable Disease Champion Award by Pohnpei State.

• They are a member of the Pohnpei Cancer Coalition

• They donated 113 white sheets to Pohnpei State Emergency and Maternity Wards

• They again donated food items to Pohnpei State Hospital, Genesis, and the Pohnpei State Jail as they do on an annual basis

• They launched consultation workshops on an FSM National Child Protection Policy in partnership with FSM Health and UNICEF, which is beginning this month

• They are an annual sponsor for the FSM National Law Day Debates

• They partnered with National and State Governments, UNICEF, the Embassies, the World Bank, PMU, and the Asian Development Bank on gender-based and awareness raisings on domestic violence workshops.

If those weren’t reasons enough to celebrate, the women could also celebrate the election of not just one representative

to the FSM Congress. Dr. Perpetua Konman broke the barrier as the first woman ever to have been elected to serve as an FSM Senator when she was elected to fill the seat of her husband. On March 7, Chuuk voters decided to return her to the seat. Voters also chose to elect Dr. Merlynn Abello-Alfonso to serve in the FSM Congress. She is the first woman ever elected to represent a Pohnpei Election District.

Again, though March 8 and perhaps the parade of floats on Saturday, March 4, were the most public events the ladies participated in, the ladies also met for a series of workshops and lectures throughout the week from March 2-8.

On March 2, they were scheduled to hear speakers on the subjects of innovation and

technology for Gender Equality presented by UNICEF. They had a speaker from the FSM Department of Health and Social Affairs on the long-term side effects and lingering symptoms post COVID-19 pandemic recovery. They heard from an FSM Supreme Court Staff Attorney on the subject of access to justice. They had a Constitutional Convention Consultation by the Pohnpei ConCon Education Taskforce and were presented with progress reports from more than 20 Pohnpei Women’s Organizations.

On Friday, March 3, they gathered at Nohno en Mwomwodiso en Pohnpei Church for the International World Day of Prayer. In the afternoon, they were

...Panuelo letter

Continued from front page

wanted, through a vaguely worded and supposedly non-legally binding agreement, to possess ownership of the region’s ocean resources. He said that China wanted to create a “for its own uses such as for deepsea mining; control of our fiber optic cables and other telecommunications infrastructure, which would allow them to read our emails and listen to our phone calls; to possess ownership of our immigration and border control processes, for the use of biodata collection and observation; and to create sweeping security agreements with our country and our region.”

Accuses China of bribery to keep FSM aligned prior to a planned invasion of Taiwan

The President, without naming names, said that China has engaged in the bribery of FSM leaders in an effort to ensure that the FSM continues its diplomatic relations with China as the country ramps up its military for a predicted invasion of Taiwan by 2027. “… the FSM has a key role to play in either the prevention of such a conflict, or participation in allowing it to occur,” the President wrote. “It is on this basis that Political Warfare and Grey Zone activity occur within our borders; China is seeking to ensure that, in the event of a war in our Blue Pacific Continent between themselves and Taiwan, that the FSM is, at best, aligned with the PRC (China) instead of the United States, and, at worst, that the FSM chooses to “abstain” altogether.

“If an invasion of Taiwan seems unlikely, did we not feel the same about the invasion of Ukraine?-and in this case, we know about PRC’s whitepaper to be ready to invade by 2027,” he added parenthetically.

China eyes on Guam?

He said that he initiated a total moratorium on PRC research vessel activity in the FSM’s EEZ after the FSM learned that the vessels were not only mapping for resources but for submarine travel paths. “We are aware of PRC activity in our Exclusive Economic Zone whose purpose includes communicating with other PRC assets so as to help ensure that, in the event a missile-or group of missiles-ever needed to land a strike on the U.S. Territory of Guam, that they would be successful in doing so. When we sent our own patrol boats to our own Exclusive Economic Zone to check on PRC research vessel activity, the PRC sent a warning for us to stay away.”

FSM rejects China’s Ambassador designate

The President said that he has rejected China’s Ambassador designate, Mr. WU Wei. While Mr. Wu’s submitted curriculum vitae did include the fact that he is the Deputy Director General for China’s External

Security Affairs, it did not include details about what his previous responsibilities had been. The FSM learned that in that capacity, Mr. Wu’s work experience related to the use of clandestine PRC police offices—secret police—seen in countries such as Canada and Australia. “We understand that Mr. Wu would, upon his arrival, be given the mission of preparing the FSM to shift away from its partnerships with traditional allies such as the U.S., Japan, and Australia,” the President said. “…As of the time of this letter, the PRC has not responded-formally or informallyto that rejection, though they have spoken with some of our senior officials and elected leaders to note that they’re simply awaiting the new President to take power so Mr. Wu can become the Ambassador of China to the FSM.”

Says bribery is China’s method of success with agenda in FSM

“One of the reasons that China’s Political Warfare is successful in so many arenas is that we are bribed to be complicit, and bribed to be silent. That’s a heavy word, but it is an accurate description regardless,” President Panuelo wrote. “What else do you call it when an elected official is given an envelope filled with money after a meal at the PRC Embassy or after an inauguration? What else do you call it when a senior official is discretely given a smartphone after visiting Beijing? What else do you call it when a senior official explicitly asks Chinese diplomats for televisions and other ‘gifts’? What else do you call it when an elected official receives a container filled with plants and other items? What else do you call it when an elected official receives a check for a public project that our National Treasury has no record of and no means of accounting for?”

President Panuelo said that he would “refuse to name names, but it is not out of courtesy; it is to keep the emphasis on the problem, instead of naming or shaming any particular person or group of people. Senior officials and elected officials across the whole of our National and State Governments receive offers of gifts as a means to curry favor. The practical impact of this is that some senior officials and elected officials take actions that are contrary to the FSM’s national interest, but are consistent with the PRC’s national interest.”

“I want to be clear that I am professing to youthose who will succeed my administration, and likely continue to remain in political power at the National or State level-that if your administration is like mine, you will have Cabinet who record bilateral meetings and transmit those recordings to China,” the President said. “You will have Cabinet and/or senior officials tell the Chinese Ambassador ‘I will help you if you help me’ behind your back. You will have Cabinet accept gifts, such as envelopes filled with money, and alcohol. You will have Cabinet attend meetings with foreign officialssometimes officials from countries the FSM doesn’t recognize, or doesn’t recognize yet

without your knowledge. It isn’t going to be just one of them, and what one will tell you in public versus what they will tell you in private-or behind your back-may prove to be very different things. It is here that I wish to emphasize that not all of the political appointees I have been recently removing from office have engaged in these activities.”

Not all elected FSM officials took little red envelopes

Bribery is a difficult crime to prove definitively unless one witnesses the actual bribery taking place. As one example, the President said that shortly after being elected as a Senator in the FSM Congress, then Senator, now FSM Vice President Aren Palik, was invited to a dinner at the Chinese Embassy. Then PRC Ambassador Huang asked Palik if he would sit up front with other Senators, and ALSO to accept an envelope filled with money. Palik refused, telling the Ambassador to never offer him a bribe again, and later reported Ambassador Huang as telling him that he could be President someday as the rationale for the “special treatment”.

In October of last year, Palik visited Kosrae and was received by representatives of Da Yang Seafood. The company has a private plane in which they and several senior government officials arrived. The representatives told the Vice President that they can provide him private and personal transportation to anywhere he likes at any time, even Hawaii. All he had to do was ask.

“So, what does it really look like when so (many) of our government’s senior officials and elected officials choose to advance their own personal interests in lieu of the national interest?... At worst in the shortterm, it means we sell our country and our sovereignty for temporary personal benefit. At worst in the long-term, it means we are, ourselves, active participants in allowing a possible war to occur in our region, and very likely our own islands and our neighbors on Guam and Hawaii, where we ourselves will be indirectly responsible for the Micronesian lives lost. After all, this isn’t about the United States or Japan or Australia or any

other country-but it must be about our own Micronesian citizens, and the fact that Guam by itself, and Hawaii by itself, each have Micronesian populations larger than Yap and Kosrae combined and, together, have a Micronesian population larger than Pohnpei. In other words: this is about upholding our duty to our FSM Constitution, to which we swear allegiance to, including our duty to protect the security and sovereignty of our own country and our own people.”

FSM high level meeting with Taiwan

On top of the many other bombshells President Panuelo dropped in his letter, he told the FSM leaders that last month he had met with Joseph Wu, Foreign Minister of Taiwan, to discuss what their potential assistance to the FSM might be were the FSM to switch its diplomatic relations to supporting Taiwan instead of China. He also explored the idea of maintaining relations with China, initializing a Taipei Economic and Cultural Representative Office.

Minister Wu told the President that Taiwan would inject $50 million into the FSM’s Trust Fund over a three-year period, accompanied by an annual $15 million assistance package to be used and divided as the FSM sees fit. Additionally, Minister Wu told the President that Taiwan would finish any and all projects that China is currently working on, such as the National Convention Center in Palikir, the Kosrae State Government Complex, and the complete re-working of Pohnpei State Government Complex, which was falling apart within months of its opening. “All of this assistance, of course, would be on top of the greatly added layers of security and protection that come with our country distancing itself from the PRC, which has demonstrated a keen capability to undermine our sovereignty, rejects our values, and uses our elected and senior officials for their own purposes,” President Panuelo wrote.

Any FSM acknowledgement of Taiwan not acceptable to China

China was not at all happy with the President’s

...Panuelo letter (2)

Continued from previous page

missive. The Embassy of the People’s Republic of China to the FSM released a tersely worded statement regarding what it called an “individual politician’s letter concerning China”, not mentioning that the mentioned politician is the current President of the FSM.

“We noted some media’s reports on the Federated States of Micronesia’s individual politician’s letter concerning China,” the statement says. “We are shocked by the news about the negative remarks concerning China in the letter which are a clear misrepresentation of facts and full of slanders against China-FSM friendship. We firmly oppose to any word or behaviour against the one-China principle unveiled in the letter. The Letter revealed that some FSM individual politician breaks the serious political commitments which he made to China for multiple times, makes official contact with Taiwan authorities and seeks official relation with Taiwan region, which seriously violates the one-China principle. China firmly rejects any official communications between the FSM and Taiwan region in any forms and firmly opposes any slanders against Chinese diplomatic and commercial activities.”

“…China urges relevant people in the FSM to stop sending any wrong signals to the ’Taiwan independence’ separatist forces and bring the bilateral relation back on the track of the one-China principle universally supported by the international community, and take concrete actions to defend the Great Friendship between our two countries.”

• Pohnpei-based position

• Join the principal development organisation in the region

The Pacific Community (SPC) invites applications for the position of FADs and Sea Safety Focal Officer within its Oceanic Fisheries Programme located at the Micronesia Regional Office (MRO) in Pohnpei, Micronesia.

Description

The Pacific Community (SPC) is the principal scientific and technical organisation in the Pacific region, supporting development since 1947. We are an international development organisation owned and governed by our 27 country and territory members. In pursuit of sustainable development to benefit Pacific people, our unique organisation works across more than 25 sectors. We are known for our knowledge and innovation in such areas as fisheries science, public health surveillance, geoscience, and conservation of plant genetic resources for food and agriculture.

The key responsibilities of the role include the following:

1. Local coordination and day to day management of FAD related project activities

2. Data collection, entry and management

3. Local coordination and development of sea safety initiatives in Pohnpei and other FSM states

4. Awareness and communication

For a more detailed account of the key responsibilities, please refer to the online job description.

Qualifications

• Tertiary qualifications in fisheries science, natural resource management, life sciences, data collection or a related field, or significant demonstrated relevant experience working in a fisheries related area.

Essential experience and skills

• At least 3 years of demonstrated experience in oceanic and/or coastal fisheries management, science, community engagement or monitoring activities in the Pacific region.

• Strong communication skills and ability to adapt the message delivery and approaches to the audience.

• Strong planning and organizational skills including the ability to manage a number of competing priorities, and work with limited supervision.

• Driver’s license.

Remuneration

The FADs and Sea Safety Focal Officer is a Band 4 position in SPC’s 2023 salary scale, with a starting taxable salary range of USD 1,764–2,204 per month, plus local staff benefits. Benefits – SPC provides medical and life insurance for eligible employees and their eligible dependents. Employees are entitled to 25 days of annual leave. Provident Fund and/or Social Security will be according to FSM’s local legislation.

Closing date:

26 March 2023 – 11:00 pm Pohnpei time

Job Reference:

Motivation,

despite personal safety concerns

“I love the Federated States of Micronesia, this nation, my nation, your nation, our nation, too much to not inform each of you about these important topics, and to warn you of the kinds of threats and opportunities that face us,” President Panuelo wrote in closing. “I am acutely aware that informing you all of this presents risks to my personal safety; the safety of my family; and the safety of the staff I rely on to support me in this work. I inform you regardless of these risks, because the sovereignty of our nation, the prosperity of our nation, and the peace and stability of our nation, are more important. Indeed, they are the solemn duty of literally each and every single one of us who took the oath of office to protect our Constitution and our country.”

At press time, President Panuelo had not responded to our email communication with him.

The Fisheries, Aquaculture and Marine Ecosystems (FAME) Division includes the Oceanic Fisheries Programme (OFP) and Coastal Fisheries Programme (CFP). The goal of the OFP is to ensure fisheries that exploit the region’s resources of tuna, billfish and related species are managed for economic and ecological sustainability using the best available scientific information. In pursuing this goal, the OFP provides scientific support for the management of fisheries for tuna and associated species, with a strong focus on stock assessment and modelling, fisheries and ecosystem monitoring and analysis and data management.

The Micronesia Regional Office (MRO) situated in Kolonia, Pohnpei, Federated States of Micronesia (FSM), is the main hub for SPC's projects and partnerships with the Micronesian members of the Federated States of Micronesia, the Republic of the Marshall Islands (RMI), the Republic of Palau, and the territories of the Northern Mariana Islands (CNMI), and Guam. The MRO opened in January 2006.

The role – the FADs and Sea Safety Focal Officer will provide technical, field and communications support for the implementation and day to day coordination of projects related to drifting and anchored Fish Aggregation Devices (FADs) and sea safety in FSM. The role provides a focal point for information, training, and general liaison with relevant agencies and partners, including governments, fisheries agencies, NGOs, fishing industry and local communities.

SH000278

Applicants can apply online at: http://careers.spc.int/

For your application to be considered, you must provide us with:

• an updated resume with contact details for three professional referees

• a cover letter detailing your skills, experience and interest in this position

• responses to all screening questions

Please answer all of the screening questions.

1. What are the main types of Fish Aggregation Devices used in the Pacific and discuss the pros and cons of these for fisheries operations and Pacific Island countries?

2. What types of approaches would you use to raise awareness of Fish Aggregation Devices and communicate research and development work to diverse communities and other stakeholders of varying socio-economic and educational backgrounds?

3. What will be the challenges faced to collect data on beached FADs in FSM and Micronesia?

Three generations of Micronesian women succeed online with traditional skirt business

Haimanot Abebe, Media and Communications Officer, IOM Micronesia

March 7, 2023

Kitti, Pohnpei-- “New Skirts for Sale! Affordable. Payment through Western Union, Money Gram or CashApp if interested. Shipping is not included.”

The JEMS Sewing Company is open for business, and Juleen is determined to succeed. She is selling on Facebook traditional skirts from the island of Pohnpei, Micronesia; some with intricate machine-embroidered floral patterns, and others imprinted with large tropical flowers and Pacific tattoo designs.

With close to 9,000 members in the JEMS Sewing Company Facebook group and additional networks Juleen sells to from her personal page, business has never been better.

Juleen may be the face of the business, but the driver behind this thriving business is a 61-year-old Pohnpeian woman from the town of Kitti, Erina. Her name makes up the “E” in JEMS, which is actually an acronym for “Joseph and Erina Manuel Sewing Company – representing her and her husband’s family business.

On any given day, one can hear the whirring of sewing machines on the veranda of Erina’s home located atop a forested hill in Kitti, 6.5 kilometers outside of Kolonia, Pohnpei’s main town. Erina sews there together with her two grandchildren and two women she hired when the business became more successful.

Traditional Pohnpeian skirts are displayed at Erina's home ready for sale.

Photo: IOM 2023/Haimanot Abebe

“Pohnpeian skirts are really popular these days,” Erina says.

In Pohnpei, the skirts are widely worn by young and old alike. Street shops commonly display a train of skirts on clotheslines outside their store and sell them for USD 55, USD 65, and even more, depending on the amount of embroidery on a design.

Erina started JEMS two years ago, after receiving a USD 5,000 grant from the International Organization for Migration (IOM). She wasted no time.

“I knew a little about making skirts; I

had learned when I was younger. I knew I needed to come up with a business plan that I could manage and grow,” she explains. The journey led her to become a first-time business owner at the age of 61.

Supported by IOM’s Inspiring Women’s Advancement through Collective Action (IWA) project, in January 2021, Erina and 12 women from communities in Pohnpei were selected and trained on financial literacy, bookkeeping, cashflow projection, pricing, and other essential skills while being provided with seed money to start businesses of their choice.

Jill Anton, Erina's granddaughter, helps her grandmother produce traditional skirts. Photo: IOM 2023/Haimanot Abebe

Prior to JEMS’s opening, Erina and her husband relied solely on his social security to cover the cost of household expenses and, at times, asked their older children for a helping hand. Erina used to spend her days tending crops like banana and taro on their sizable plot of land thick with foliage and gorge a few meters from the edge of her home.

Erina's second granddaughter, Judie Barnabas, works alongside her grandmother to deliver an order of dresses. Photo: IOM 2023/Haimanot Abebe

“I bought materials, thread, fabrics, scissors and five sewing machines in total,” Erina goes on to explain. “I bought everything in one week. After that, we started sewing.”

Today, they produce up to 50 skirts every week, or more depending on the number of orders, which sell online anywhere between USD 10 and USD 100 each.

But the key to JEMS’s business success is Juleen’s Facebook pages, which connect Erina with customers far and wide – from online shoppers in Pohnpei to customers in Micronesia’s other states, Guam, and even the United States.

Juleen's Facebook page displays Pohnpeian skirts produced by Erina for sale to buyers in the region and abroad.

through online banking, financial service companies such as Western Union and the trendier mobile payment service CashApp, which, in recent years, has also added bitcoin exchange and stock purchases to its range of services.

According to the most recent data from the government, women and girls aged 15 and older in the Federated States of Micronesia (FSM) are three times more likely than their male counterparts to be unemployed. Women also have a lower participation in the workforce (22 per cent less).

Thanks to her new business, Erina has been able to diversify the household income and is now able to pay for medical bills, electricity, and other expenses that their family would have otherwise struggled to cover.

Juleen’s access to digital finance is also enabling Erina to tap into an entirely different market. The demand for Pohnpeian skirts far exceeds her current capacity to produce, but that only motivates her to work harder.

Meanwhile, Juleen is sharpening her marketing, sales, and finance skills and has expanded her product line to printed t-shirts, jewelry, and even fresh-catch fish, all available on her Facebook page.

Jill and Judie pose for a photo at Erina's home where they will spend the afternoon sewing to meet a deadline on an order of skirts.

With extra money in her pockets, today, Erina not only covers her living expenses but also extends a helping hand to her neighbors, friends and relatives.

“We are Pohnpeians,” she says. “We have to help each other.”

Erina dreams of opening a store one day. “I want to build one out there, by the side of the road,” she says.

Supported by the US Department of State, IWA works towards removing obstacles to gender equality and empowering women and girls through livelihood activities both directly and through subgrants to local NGOs. Implementing various livelihood activities as a means to diversify household income in the RMI, FSM, and the Republic of Palau, the project targets women and girls, men and boys to raise awareness about the impacts of gender discrimination on community development, as well as the opportunities available for a more inclusive and sustainable future.

On Juleen’s Facebook pages, interested buyers are prompted to direct-message her to arrange payment methods most suitable for them. Customers make payments

Gender discrimination, including violence against women and limited socioeconomic opportunities, is a significant barrier to transforming the lives of women and girls in the FSM, the Republic of the Marshall Islands (RMI), and the Republic of Palau, where IWA operates.

Photo: IOM 2023/Haimanot Abebe

Photo: IOM 2023/Haimanot Abebe

Traditional Pohnpeian skirts are displayed at Erina's home ready for sale.

Photo: IOM 2023/ Haimanot Abebe

Jill Anton, Erina's granddaughter, helps her grandmother produce traditional skirts.

Photo: IOM 2023/Haimanot Abebe

Erina’s second granddaughter, Judie Barnabas, works alongside her grandmother to deliver an order of dresses. Photo: IOM 2023/Haimanot Abebe

EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITIES

Vice President-Institutional Effectiveness & Quality Assurance

Reporting to the President, the Vice President for Institutional Effectiveness and Quality Assurance (VPIEQA) is the individual providing leadership that supports the College of Micronesia-FSM goals and strategic plan for institutional effectiveness and quality. The VP-IEQA provides leadership for and oversight of the Office of Institutional Effectiveness (OIE) and Information Technology Office (ITO).

The VP-IEQA is a key contributor to policy development and implementation related to institutional effectiveness and quality assurance.

Director of Financial Aid Office

The director of Financial Aid Office (FAO) reports to the VPEMSS and serves as administrator for the college’s student financial aid program. The director of FAO plans, organizes, and supervises the college’s division of financial aid to administer federal, state, and institutional aid funds and services in an effort to promote access to higher education and student success as part of the college’s mission and strategic outcomes.

Prize: 75 Inch Flat Screen

Yap | Chuuk | Pohnpei | Kosrae

The Open Access Entity (OAE) Project Digital FSM

Pohnpei EPA Environmental Surveillance Laboratory certified

March 01, 2023

Pohnpei - The U.S. Freely Associated States Laboratory Certification Program has re-certified the Pohnpei EPA Environmental Surveillance Laboratory to analyze drinking water under the Colilert® Method and marine and surface water samples under the Enterolert™ Method.

In addition, four lab staff members received certification: Laboratory Supervisor Fermin Scaliem (in absentia) certification as Level III analyst, Acting Laboratory Supervisor Brad Soram certification as a Level III analyst, Senior analyst Quinton Lawrence as a Level III analyst, and new analyst Elson Elias as a Level I analyst.

Certification is necessary to ensure that the Pohnpei EPA Environmental Surveillance Laboratory produces scientifically valid and legally defensible data, and that the staff are qualified to analyze water samples for bacterial contamination.

Lab personnel must meet technical performance criteria. Analyst certification levels (I, II or III) are based on ability to pass written exams, individual demonstrations of proficiency of increasing difficulty, and years of experience. Level III analysts have also demonstrated the capacity to perform laboratory supervisor duties.

The Pohnpei EPA Environmental Surveillance Laboratory audit and certifications were provided by Ms. Edna L. Buchan (of Nimbus Environmental Services), who is a USEPA Lab Certification Officer and serves as the Certification Program Manager for the FAS Lab Certification Program.

Certificates were presented to the Pohnpei EPA Environmental Surveillance Laboratory and to individual analysts at an awards ceremony held at the Pohnpei EPA Office on 01 March 2023.

The FSM Cable Company (FSMTCC) has been at the forefront of the Digital FSM Project, establishing an Open Access Entity (OAE) that owns and manages the country’s fiber optic infrastructure. This OAE operates independently and provides fair and equal access to all internet service providers (ISPs) in the FSM.

FSM Telecommunications Cable Corporation (FSMTCC) and FSM Telecommunications Corporation (FSMTC) are two separate entities, with FSMTC focusing primarily on providing telecommunications services FSMTCC, on the other hand, focuses on providing fiber optic infrastructure to support the growth and development of the country’s telecommunications industry. With the FSM Cable Company’s OAE, ISPs have equal access to the fiber optic network, promoting healthy competition and ultimately benefiting the end-users by providing better service and lower costs.

Watch this video and find out “who’s who” in the Digital FSM Project: https://www.facebook.com/DigitalFSMProject/ videos/199890795466187

Supported by:

Funded by:

Environmental labs receive certification when specific criteria are met. The lab must pass an on-site evaluation every two years and must have a certified analyst on staff. Lab equipment must meet technical criteria for analytical detection capabilities. Calibration and other Quality Control records must be held on file to demonstrate that equipment is working properly. The certification requirements are the same as requirements for US laboratories on the US main land.

During the ceremony, Ms. Buchan recognized the accomplishments of the lab in maintaining fully certification for both drinking water and marine water. “Executive Officer Francisco Celestine and his staff are very deserving of this recertification, and I am extremely pleased to find that Pohnpei EPA has continued to uphold the highest level of laboratory practice standards since their initial certification in 2008. The laboratory is an excellent facility that provides the water quality data necessary to move forward with protection of public health and sustainable economic development in Pohnpei State.”

...Women’s Day

Continued from page 3

scheduled to be back in the Governor’s Conference Room for a talk entitled “Emotional Intelligence” by Pohnpei Department of Education representative Pressler Martin. They again heard from UNICEF on the topic of FSM Child Protection.

On Saturday, March 3, they had a parade of floats through Kolonia for a Cultural and Traditional Day. Floats from the women’s groups were judged, and on today’s celebration, the judges selected Lucille OverhoffApis of Pingelap as this year’s Women’s Day queen. The selection was based on a variety of criteria but also included significant contributions to Pohnpei’s society over the course of the year.

On Monday, again, in the Governor’s Conference Room, women were scheduled to hear a presentation by UNFPA on Family Life Education, and by UNICEF again on the topic of FSM Child Protection. They were also to hear from the International Organization for Migration and the Micronesia Legal Service Center on the topic of laws and rights for the protection of gender-based violence survivors. Pohnpei State Department of Health was to speak about the Pohnpei COVID-19 and other vaccinations drive, and the women provided access for COVID-19 vaccinations at nearly every event during the week, including today. Guam Superior Court Justice Arthur Barcinas was scheduled to speak on the topic of Emotional Intelligence and Access to Justice. The Australian Embassy was scheduled to speak on the topic of a safe space. The Micronesia Conservation Trust and The Nature Conservancy were to speak on the topic of Building Community and Ecosystem Resilience through Gender-Focused, Nature-Based Solutions.

On one of the days, the women also heard from the election observers from the Pacific Island Forum who were in the FSM to observe the conduct of the March 7 elections.

On March 8, Governor Reed Oliver addressed the women and stayed for all of the morning speeches and into the dance portion of the program, which lasted well into the evening with 27 dance groups.

The performing groups celebrating the accomplishments of women and the advances toward gender equity were:

Lien Alem en Pohnpei, Lien Madolenihmw, Lien Mand, Zumba I, Lien Nanuel, Lien Roson Mwahu (COVID and Vaccination), Lien Education -Kamarain, Lielehle, Pohnpei Women with Disabilities, Madol Treckers, Girls Scout of Pohnpei, Lien Kitti, Rainbow Zumba, Lien Pwihn Keieu en Madolenihmw, Lien Pingelap, Lien Onohnleng, Lien Wehi, Tikpeieng, Pohnpei Ladies Club, Lien Mercedes, Lien Mwoakilloa, Nett Indigenous Women, Lien Rohi, U Organization of Women, Lien Dolonier, Lien Kolonia, and Kosrae Women in Pohnpei

Embassy of the United States of America

Vacancy Announcement: VA2023.003

POSITION TITLE: Procurement Agent/Property Assistant

OPENING PERIOD: March 15 to April 7

SERIES/GRADE: FSN-105/07

SALARY: USD $14,759.00

FOR COMPLETE INFORMATION AND JOB DESCRIPTION VISIT: fm.usembassy.gov/embassy/jobs/

CONTACT THE HUMAN RESOURCES OFFICE: KoloniaHumanResourceRequests@state.gov

DUTIES:

Incumbent serves as the Procurement Agent/ Property Assistant. As Real Property Assistant, incumbent is responsible for leasing actions and coordinating with landlords. As the Procurement Agent, incumbent is responsible for preparing purchasing actions and maintaining procurement files. Incumbent will also serve as Non-Expendable Property Assistant who is responsible for receiving and record-keeping on all property.

EDUCATION:

At least two years post-secondary education is required.

EXPERIENCE:

Three years of experience in purchasing, procurement, leasing, or property inventory, involving application of complex regulatory material is required.

LANGUAGE:

Level 4 (Fluent) Speaking/Reading/Writing English is required. (This will be tested.)

Selected applicant under consideration will be required to pass medical and security certifications.

EQUAL EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITY (EEO):

The U.S. Mission provides equal opportunity and fair and equitable treatment in employment to all people without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, political affiliation, marital status, or sexual orientation.

...Resignations

Continued from front page

Foreign Affairs, Cantero is the appointed Co-Chair of the 4th Constitutional Convention Public Education Task Force. In his letter to Cantero, the President relieved him also of that position.

“I am not certain why and was surprised this morning,” Cantero wrote on the morning of March 9. “Perhaps people tend to make… drastic decision under emotional stress…after 23 years (of) dedicated service, I just thought a little bit of honor and respect would be okay.”

His resignation letter to the President was full of exactly that—honor and respect. “Please allow me this opportunity to also submit to you my sincerest personal gratitude and profound gratefulness for the opportunity you have given me to serve our people and our country under you able and visionary leadership. Over the 23-years of service for our country and people

as a diplomat, I will attest that I have performed to the best of my abilities to provide the best possible service that is deserving of our country and our people. I thank you so much for your support and confidence.” The letter went on to detail 10 remarkable accomplishments of the department during the Panuelo administration, prefacing each accomplishment with the words, “under your leadership, the Department…”.

Attorney General Joses Gallen, who at the time of our communication was returning from Chuuk where he was to have been representing the FSM at a hearing regarding criminal charges against Korean National, Pyung Soo Gong and Seasco, Company also only had kind words to say to the press regarding his forced resignation. “I serve at the pleasure of the President. He can fire me, release me however and whenever. That is his authority. I am grateful to the President for the opportunity to serve him a nd the people of the FSM.”

Former Post Master General Ginger Mida had a similar response that came at the very last minute before press

time. “I want to thank H.E.David W. Panuelo for his wise decision to lock down the country when he did to prevent the spread of the pandemic to our shores,” she wrote. While his decision created some temporary challenges for our people, his decision did save lives and delayed the introduction of the COVID-19 until we were better prepared to respond to it effectively.

“I further want to thank His Excellency for appointing me to the FSM Postmaster General’s post during his administration, and for all the support he had provided over the years to me during my tenure. Without his support, and the support of the Congess and our people it would have been very difficult for me to fulfill the mission of the FSM Postal Service for our people and country. I also would like to thank the US Postal Service for its generous assistance and support over the years. Their partnership with us made all the difference in the success of our work.

I must also recognize the support and partnership from United Airlines and Matson in our effort for the effective movement of the mail into and out of

our county.

“Lastly, I must thank President Mori for initially appointing me to be the first woman Postmaster General and President Christian for keeping me on during their administration.

“I welcomed the decision of President Panuelo regrading my continued employment as the FSM Postmaster General, and appreciated very much the opportunity to serve him, our people and the country. While I was ready to continue to serve, I accept the President’s power in the matter as the ultimate authority.

“I pray for our people and Nation that we will be united as one and continue to support the development and improvement of our Nation and our constituent states.

“Thank you, Mr President, and I hope the best for you and your family.

At press time, former FSM Ambassador to the United States Akillino Susaia still had not seen the message we sent to him on Thursday morning, and we have been unable to contact him.

FSM DEVELOPMENT BANK CORPORATE OFFICE

P.O. BOX M

KOLONIA, POHNPEI FM 96941

Tel. (691) 320-2840/2419/5300/5223/2624

Fax. (691) 320-2842

Email: info@fsmdb.fm

Website: www.fsmdb.fm

Employment Opportunities Announcement

The FSM Development Bank is seeking suitable candidates to fill the following two (2) positions:

1. Executive Assistant

2. Compliance Officer

Location for both positions is at FSMDB Corporate Office in Kolonia, Pohnpei FSM

Opening Date: March 3, 2023

Closing Date: April 3, 2023

It is the policy of the FSM Development bank that FSM citizens be given first priority for employment consideration, with other Micronesians, U.S. citizens, and other nationals utilized in positions for which no qualified citizens are available.

Position #1: Executive Assistant

Salary: $16,000 per annum

General Duties and Responsibilities

(Illustrative only):

Provides clerical, procedural, and administrative support functions to the President/CEO such as the following:

• Assist with telephone calls and visitors

• Maintain the President/CEO’s calendar

• Process requests for information concerning the Bank's business and services that can be compiled from files, databases, or using personal knowledge of the organization.

• Receive incoming correspondence and reports and draft replies to general inquiries; review outgoing correspondence for procedural and grammatical accuracy, conformance with general policy, appropriate facts, and adequacy of treatment; advise the author of any deviations or inadequacies.

• Make travel arrangements for Bank travel purposes.

• Prepare documents for Board of Directors and Shareholders meetings and take minutes of such meetings.

• Assist in the preparation of manual revisions and other reports.

• Manage the office supplies stock and place orders, coordinate vehicle insurance, registrations and maintenance.

• Perform other duties and projects as assigned.

Qualification Requirements:

Associate’s degree (A.A.) or equivalent from two-year college or technical school; plus, one to three years of administrative work or related experience and/or training; Proficient with Microsoft Office.

Position #2:

Compliance Officer:

Salary: $25,000 per annum

General Duties and Responsibilities

(Illustrative only):

• Develop and implement effective compliance procedures and programs for the bank;

• Research and recommend changes and updates to the Bank compliance policies and procedures;

• Perform compliance review for loans subject to Bank policies, procedures, directives and applicable FSM laws and regulations;

• Review audit findings for non-compliance citations and recommend resolutions on citations and updates to applicable policies and procedures;

• Develop and implement plans and activities to ensure all audit citations are followed up and resolved;

• Provide compliance reports to management regularly on all loan approval conditions, Bank policies and procedures, and applicable FSM law and regulations;

• Assist to ensure that loan condition requirements are met and that all exception items are accurately tracked and reported monthly for resolution;

• Participate in the development and recommendation of loan policies and procedures;

• Perform other duties and projects as assigned.

Qualification Requirements:

Bachelor's degree in accounting, finance, business, economics or other business-related fields of study; Some experience in compliance audit preferred.

Filing Instructions:

All applications, curriculum vitae, and at least three letters of reference shall be completed and submitted to: FSMDB Corporate Office in Kolonia, Pohnpei, or any of the FSMDB Branch offices in Chuuk, Kosrae and Yap State. You may mail to: FSM Development Bank HQ, P.O. Box M, Kolonia, Pohnpei FM 96941; or fax to 320-2842 or by email to: info@fsmdb.fm, on or before April 3, 2023.

The FSM Development Bank is an equal opportunity employer, provider and lender. For discrimination complaints, please write to: Chairman of the Board of Directors, P.O. Box M, Kolonia, Pohnpei FM 96941 Telephone: (691) 320-2840/5300/2419; Fax: (691) 2842/2056; E-mail: info@fsmdb.fm

Australian, Japanese, and United States Embassies join International Women’s Day Walk

Joint Press Release: Australian, Japanese, and United States Embassies to the FSM

March 10, 2023

The Ambassadors of the Embassies of Australia, Japan, and the United States and their staff joined a group of local and international organizations on Saturday March 4 in a walk to celebrate International Women’s Day (IWD). Organized by the Pohnpei Women’s Council, the walk started at PICS high school and finished at the Spanish Wall. Walking in front of a large caravan of colorfully themed parade floats, diplomatic corps participants and local and international organizations joined under one banner in support of Pohnpeian women and girls. The following post-walk quotes underscore the diplomatic community’s appreciation of this important day:

U.S. Embassy Kolonia Chargé d'affaires Alissa Bibb:

“This year’s IWD theme (#EmbraceEquity) speaks to the importance of the continued growth in women’s representation in all

areas of society. We are happy to #EmbraceEquity through today’s event with our diplomatic corps colleagues and walk in support of Micronesian women and girls.”

Australian Ambassador to the FSM Jo Cowley:

“We are proud to stand with FSM women and girls on IWD, and every other day, to celebrate their achievements and support efforts to progress gender equality. Investing in women has a powerful impact on community wellbeing and economic growth.”

Japanese Ambassador to the FSM Michigami Hisashi:

“I believe fair representation of women in our society is an essential element for our bright future and it is a great pleasure for me to take part in the Walk for empowerment of the girls and women in the FSM.”

President Biden proposes $537 Million in the FY 2024 budget for U.S. Territories and the Freely Associated States

U.S Department of the Interior

WASHINGTON – The Biden-Harris administration today released the President’s Budget for Fiscal Year (FY) 2024. The President’s budget includes $537 million in funding for the U.S. Department of the Interior’s Office of Insular Affairs (OIA). The proposal would fund initiatives benefitting fellow Americans in the U.S. territories of American Samoa, the Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands, Guam, and the U.S. Virgin Islands and support certain programs for the freely associated states: the Federated States of Micronesia (FSM), the Republic of the Marshall Islands (RMI), and the Republic of Palau.

“President Biden has proposed an important blueprint for our country’s future that reflects the importance of science, equity and collaboration in carrying out the Department of the Interior’s important missions,” said Assistant Secretary for Insular and International Affairs Carmen G. Cantor. “The 2024 budget request makes critical,

targeted investments in the American people and in the Territories that will promote greater prosperity and economic growth for decades to come. For the Insular Areas, the budget will provide for investments in infrastructure, energy resiliency and security, and promote racial justice and equity in underserved communities allowing Interior to fulfill its responsibilities in the Pacific and the Caribbean.”

The FY 2024 budget proposal for OIA includes $122 million in current appropriations and $414 million in permanent funding. It also reflects proposed increases from the FY 2023 enacted level of $4 million in Capital Improvement Projects grant funding to support critical infrastructure needs in the Territories, and $900,000 for the Coral Reef Initiative and Natural Resources grant program to address additional conservation needs for all Insular Areas.

For OIA, the FY 2024 budget proposal:

Underscores the importance of

Compacts of Free Association:

Financial assistance provided under the Compacts of Free Association is scheduled to end after FY 2023 for the FSM and the RMI and after FY 2024 for Palau. The Administration supports renewing the funding of our Compact of Free Association relationships. Continuing decisions established in the FY 2023 budget, the 2024 budget proposal seeks $6.5 billion in economic assistance over 20 years to be provided through a mandatory appropriation at the Department of State, and language calling for continued implementation of the Compacts at the Department of the Interior. Negotiations on the expiring provisions of the Compacts of Free Association continue, underscoring the importance of these bilateral relationships. The Administration intends to submit a legislative proposal to Congress upon completion of these negotiations later this year. The United States remains committed to its long-standing partnerships with the governments and the people of the freely associated states as we work together to

promote a free and open Indo-Pacific.

Proposes support for Compact migrants:

With mandatory appropriations for Compact Impact (authorized under the 2003 Compacts of Free Association Act) also expiring after FY 2023, the proposed FY 2024 budget discontinues the smaller discretionary supplement to the mandatory funds for Compact Impact. The Administration supports allowing Compact migrants to become eligible for key federal social safety net programs while residing in the United States, as a long-term solution to the financial impacts of Compact migrants on state and territorial governments. The matter requires congressional review and approval.

For more information on the President’s FY 2024 budget, please visit: https:// www.whitehouse.gov/omb/budget/

For the Department of the Interior’s FY 2024 Budget in Brief, please visit: https://www.doi.gov/budget/ appropriations/2024

CHUUK STATE GOVERNMENT PROJECT MANAGEMENT OFFICE

P.O. Box 1659, Weno, Chuuk, FSM 96942 Tel: (691) 330 -3069

REQUEST FOR EXPRESSIONS OF INTEREST MASTER PLANNING, CONCEPTUAL DESIGN AND PROCUREMENT SERVICES FOR CHUUK STATE HOSPITAL PROJECT

COUNTRY:

NAME OF PROJECT:

Assignment Title:

The Government of the State of Chuuk has received approval from the Joint Economic Management Committee (which administers US Compact Assistance Programs in the FSM), for a project to design and construct a new Hospital on the island of Weno in Chuuk State. The project is included in the Infrastructure Development Program being funded by the United States under the Compact of Free Association (the Compact). Under the terms of the Compact, the Goverment of the State of Chuuk, through the FSM National Government, intends to seek financing from the Government of the United States for all contracts relating to the scoping, design and construction of the Chuuk State Hospital Project.

The consulting services (“the Services”) will be undertaken in two phases. Phase I will involve a needs assessment, scoping, technical investigations, site analysis and the development of a Master Plan and Conceptual Designs for the new hospital. Phase 2, which will be undertaken after the Government’s approval of the conceptual designs, will involve the preparation of bidding documents (based on the DesignBuild model) for detailed designs and construction of the hospital and procurement assistance for bidding, bid evaluation and contract award.

The Chuuk State Government (CSG) now invites eligible consulting firms (“Consultants”) to indicate their interest in providing the Services. Interested Consultants should provide information demonstrating that they have the required qualifications and relevant experience to perform the Services. The short listing criteria are:

I. General experience in the core areas of facilities planning, design and construction supervision (a minimum of 10 years’ experience will be required)

II. Experience on similar assignments involving the planning and design of new Hospitals, as per the Terms of Reference ( at least 3 similar assignments over the past 10 years of which at least 1 assignment should be in a small island developing state)

III. Proof of technical, managerial, and financial capacity of the firm

IV. Experience in the pacific region desired

Consultants may associate with other firms to enhance their qualifications but should indicate clearly whether the association is in the form of a joint venture and/or a sub-consultancy. In the case of a joint venture, all the partners in the joint venture shall be jointly and severally liable for the entire contract, if selected.

A Consultant will be selected in accordance with the QualificationsBased Selection Method (QBS). In this regard, the short-listed firms will be invited to submit technical proposals in accordance with an RFP that will be shared with all short-listed firms. The technical proposals will be used to evaluate and rank the firms and the first

Federated States of Micronesia, Chuuk State Chuuk State Hospital Project Consultancy Services for Scoping, Master Plan, Conceptual Designs and Procurement

ranked firm will be invited to submit a financial proposal to form the basis for contract negotiations.

The Terms of Reference along with a brief overview of the existing hospital and a list of desired services / facilities (Annexure I) and the Location Maps / Site layout (Annexure II) can be downloaded by accessing the following links:

TOR

https://docs.google.com/document/ d/1qZfMWLxceBx6LYIDiDESEJrbspDdq-_1/edit?usp=share_ link&ouid=107101640436123170979&rtpof=true&sd=true

Annexure I

https://docs.google.com/document/d/1uT7c7dYkduD_7Zxru8oxeFc LbsHdpoXH/edit?usp=share_ link&ouid= 107101640436123170979&rtpof=true&sd=true

Annexure II

https://drive.google.com/file/d/1bCVtDgn7Ukz2Z8aiRyRFK6WLSNWXwN-/ view?usp=share_link

Expressions of interest must be delivered in a written form to the address below (in person, or by mail, or by e-mail at the address given below:

Sanjata Basu, P.E

Project Manager, Project Management Office

P.O. Box 1659

Weno, Chuuk State

Federated States of Micronesia (FSM) 96942 Tel: (691) 330 3069 email: sanjata.basu@gmail.com with copy through email to:

Ms. Wayleen Fares

Assistant Chief of Staff

Office of the Governor, State of Chuuk email: wayleen@chuukstate.gov.fm

The closing date for the submission of the EOI is Friday, March 24, 2023 at 4.00 PM.

TRADE MARK CAUTIONARY NOTICE

Notice is hereby given that our client, Intel Corporation, 2200 Mission College Boulevard, Santa Clara, CA. 95052-8119 United States of America is the owner and sole proprietor of the following trademark:

INTEL INSIDE

Which is used in connection with Computers; notebook computers; laptop computers; portable computers; handheld computers; personal digital assistants; personal media players; mobile telephones; smart phones; digital cameras; servers; computer hardware; computer and telecommunications networking hardware; computer network adaptors, switches, routers and hubs; wireless and wired modems and communication cards and devices; computer firmware for use in operating and maintaining the computer system; computer software; semiconductors; microprocessors; integrated circuits; central processing units; microcomputers; computer chipsets; computer motherboards; computer graphics boards; computer peripherals and electronic apparatus for use with computers; parts, fittings, and testing apparatus for all the aforesaid goods; downloadable electronic publications in the area of computers, telecommunications, telephony, and wireless communications; digital video recorders; set top and set back boxes; televisions in International Class 9; and

Further, take notice that Intel Corporation, 2200 Mission College Boulevard, Santa Clara, CA. 95052-8119 United States of America, attaches singular importance to its above referenced trademark and will immediately take the strongest legal actions to protect its intellectual property rights against any person(s) or business(es) found to be infringing those rights. Note that any infringing or unauthorized use of this mark while be met with civil and criminal action including injunctions, orders to seize, audits, full damages and costs.

Any inquiry regarding said trademark may be referred to the attorneys for Intel Corporation, 2200 Mission College Boulevard, Santa Clara, CA. 95052-8119 United States of America, as follows:

Hilborne, Hawkin & Co.

230 Commerce Drive, Suite 185 Irvine, California 92602

United States of America

Telephone: (714) 283-1155

Facsimile: (714) 283-1555

Email: info@hilbornehawkin.com

Pacific Economic Update: As growth returns to the Pacific, debt and inflation remain concerns

New World Bank report series provides economic deep dive into Pacific economies

World Bank

February 28, 2023

SUVA – After nearly three years of economic contraction, Pacific economies can anticipate a return to growth this calendar year despite ongoing challenges, according to the World Bank. While the recovery is expected to continue, fiscal balances, debt sustainability, and inflation will remain a concern. Pacific nations will need to consider reforms and policies to boost equitable growth and sustainable investments, while striking a careful balance between supporting livelihoods and reducing future public debt risks. The outlook is detailed in the World Bank’s inaugural Pacific Economic Update, a comprehensive assessment and forwardprojection of 11 Pacific Island country economies, launched today in Suva, Fiji.

While all Pacific countries are forecast to grow through 2023, some countries, such as Palau, will see larger rebounds of around 18 per cent growth in GDP on the back of a resurgent tourism industry. Others, such as Solomon Islands, are expected to grow more slowly with an increase of around 2.3 percent.

Economic impacts from the COVID-19 Pandemic persist

The new report comes at a critical juncture for Pacific Island countries. Closure of borders from 2020-22 during the pandemic have eased after dealing a severe blow to the tourism-dependent economies of Fiji, Vanuatu, Samoa, Tonga, and Palau. However, the region is now being buffeted by inflation and global economic uncertainty. In 2022, costs of shipping and imports rose to their highest levels in over 20 years. Although prices have eased modestly in recent months, the shocks are still being felt by the Pacific as global uncertainty has increased.

“After being severely hit by COVID-19, and tepid signs of recovery in 2022, economies across the Pacific can expect growth in 2023, but for many people it will not feel like a return to preCOVD-19 times,” said the World Bank’s Lead Economist for the Pacific, David Gould. “After three years of economic contraction in Fiji, for example, growth in 2022 is estimated to have climbed to 15

per cent, yet output is expected to remain below 2019 levels until 2024.”

In the Federated States of Micronesia

The Federated States of Micronesia’s (FSM) economy contracted for three consecutive years during COVID but is forecast to see a return to growth of 3 percent in FY2023. While inflation is expected to fall from FY2023 onwards the country’s fiscal position is expected to deteriorate slightly as grant revenue returns to more normal level.

Pacific not immune from fallout of the war on Ukraine

The report notes that the high global economic fallout associated with the war on Ukraine led to a downward revision in growth forecasts for Pacific economies.

“Pacific Island countries have not been immune from the economic impacts of the war on Ukraine,” said David Gould. “Just as the Pacific was set to begin its post-pandemic recovery, it has been dealt another shock. Rising global energy and food prices have strained Pacific budgets, added to inflation, and ultimately increased the cost of living for families across the region.”

The report projects that inflationary pressures will peak in the first half of2023, with consumer prices projected to fall in every Pacific Island country except Samoa, where inflation may reach as high as 12 per cent in the second half of the year, before falling in 2024. Policymakers urged to boost sustainable growth; minimize debt and fiscal vulnerabilities

The report provides an in-depth look at the challenges of fiscal and debt vulnerabilities faced by Pacific Island countries and how these were made worse during the pandemic. It offers several recommendations that Pacific governments could consider to accelerate their recovery, enhance debt and fiscal sustainability, and further improve living standards across the region.

“COVID-mitigation measures led Pacific governments to expand spending. To reduce the likelihood of falling into a problematic debt situation, Pacific

governments should now consider ways to sensibly reduce costs, and begin to responsibly unwind pandemic-era support,” said Gould.

“After three difficult years, the Pacific’s economic prospects are clearly improving. While challenges remain, the Pacific is well placed to accelerate its post-COVID economic recovery throughout 2023 and beyond,” said Stephen Ndegwa, World Bank Country Director for Papua New Guinea and the Pacific.

The World Bank works in partnership with 12 countries across the Pacific, supporting more than 95 projects totalling US$3 billion in commitments in sectors including agriculture, aviation and transport, climate resilience and adaptation, economic policy, education and employment, energy, fisheries, health, macroeconomic management, rural development, telecommunications, and tourism.

March 25, 2023, Mangrove Bay Registration: March 24, 2023, Mangrove Bay 6:00 to 7:30 p.m.

A changing Pacific landscape this International Women’s Day

By Miles Young Director, SPC Human Rights and Social Development (HRSD) Division

When the women and men of our Blue Pacific work together, with equal access to opportunities, incredible things happen.

On International Women’s Day we celebrate the achievements of women and girls, taking time to reflect on progress made but also re-committing efforts to address the challenges ahead to improve gender equality.

We need to ensure Pacific women and girls can better access services, be decision-makers in their homes and communities, and be equal alongside men working together to make this the best Pacific it can be. This includes in the household and the paid workforce – data released this week shows women account for only 34% of the labour force but do 73% of unpaid household work in Fiji.

SPC is committed to working with our 22 Pacific Island country and territory members to improve gender equality, women’s empowerment and ending violence against women and girls.

Everyone benefits from gender equality.

While the heart of SPC’s gender programme lies within its Human Rights and Social Development (HRSD) division, SPC is ensuring gender equality is integrated into every programme we initiate, every community activity we do, and every team we put together. Here are some examples.

In the North Pacific, SPC supported the advocacy campaign by the Kosrae Special Parent Network directly contributing to government adopting the Kosrae Disability Act. The Act improves the rights of people with disabilities, including the rights of survivors of violence against women and girls with disabilities to access support services.

Other SPC programmes focus on empowering women and girls and ending gender-based violence, such as Social Citizenship Education, Pacific Girl and Pacific Women Lead at SPC that includes support to crisis centres, especially in the North Pacific.

In Palau, women are being supported to cultivate success from the taro patch to the policy table while transitioning to organic farming. Women are leveraging their traditional knowledge to add value to frozen ‘demok’ (cooked taro leaf), to be

packed and sold in supermarkets at a premium price thanks to their organic certification.

In Fiji, a solar-powered boat project has doubled the productivity of fisher women while changing village protocols and mindsets to realise women can be highly skilled boat operators. The project halved the time and cost of fishing for the village women by providing a solar-powered boat along with the opportunity for women to undergo Boat Master Licence training. How fisheries resources are managed along Pacific coastlines is also changing, with more women being included alongside men community leaders, government officials and other stakeholders who make decisions. Community-based fisheries management (CBFM) initiatives support large collectives of CBFM people to share learnings and work together to sustainably manage their resources.

In climate change, SPC’s accreditation to the Green Climate Fund in 2019 requires environmental, social and other safeguards to be in place, including policies and procedures to ensure gender equality is integrated into all aspects of the climate finance project cycle – from development to implementation and reporting.

SPC is also contributing to the change in the health sector to have more women in senior leadership roles. In the past decade, there has been a significant increase of 18 per cent in female doctors, reflecting the changing Pacific landscape with more professional development opportunities plus national and regional gender equality commitments. Over the past five years 64 per cent of public health training funded by SPC has been for women.

SPC continues to be a leader in gender statistics and data development for more than a decade.

Robust data and research can be used to advocate for key issues such as ending violence against women and girls – as evidence to push for needed legal protection, more support services, referral pathways and resources, and

increased funding for programmes. For example, soon after the release of the National Study on Domestic Violence against Women in Tonga, the Family Protection Act was passed.

You can visit SPC’s Pacific Data Hub for free access to Pacific gender data and statistics, or SPC’s Toksave Pacific Gender Resource for the latest in gender research.

Of course, none of this is possible without the support of donors to gender equality programming including, but not limited to, the governments of Australia (DFAT), New Zealand (MFAT), Sweden (SIDA), United States of America (USAID) plus the European Union through the Delegation

of the European Union for the Pacific, International Maritime Organization (IMO) and Maritime Technology Cooperation Center in the Pacific. As the principal scientific and technical organisation in the Pacific region, SPC remains committed to serving the needs of governments, civil society and partners to improve gender equality.

We congratulate the women and girls of the Pacific for their achievements and stand in solidarity with them to continue the work to improve gender equality; for the benefit of every Pacific Islander - men and women, boys and girls.

Employment Opportunities

Rotary Club of Pohnpei and the Pohnpei Department of Public Safety team up for road safety

Have you seen these traffic mirrors yet? The Rotary Club of Pohnpei, with the help of Department of Public Safety, Pohnpei State Government, recently installed traffic mirrors to at the Our Lady of Mercy (OLM) Church intersection and the Palikir/ Sokehs Island intersection.

The Rotary Club of Pohnpei hopes that the mirrors will help increase traffic visibility at these intersections and help keep our streets safe.

CHUUK STATE GOVERNMENT PROJECT MANAGEMENT OFFICE

P.O. Box 1659, Weno, Chuuk, FSM 96942 Tel: (691) 330 -3069

Date Posted: March 01, 2023

Procurement Type: Sources Sought

Synopsis:

This announcement constitutes an Expressions of Interest where potential contractors can record their interest in these upcoming projects of the Project Management Office (PMO), Chuuk State Government. This is not a Request for Proposal (RFP). This announcement is for information

and planning purposes only and is not to be construed a commitment by the Government, implied or otherwise, to issue a solicitation of award a contract.

The PMO requests letters of interest from PRIME CONTRACTORS interested in performing work to construct the following:

1. Lagoon Islands

a) Pwene Elementary School at Fefen in the Southern Namoneas region

b) Eot Elementary School at Eot in the Faichuk region

2. Weipat High and Onoun Elementary Schools at Onoun in the Northwest region

3. Ettal Elementary School at Ettal in the Mortlocks region

Background

The Chuuk State Government, through the PMO, is responsible for providing adequate services in the education sector for the public. The listed schools have been approved for construction under Compact Funding from the United States Department of the Interior through the Office of Insular Affairs

Project Description :

This is a Bid-Build ad measurement construction project to construct one High School and three Elementary Schools located as described above. The magnitude of the projects are estimated to be between $14,000,000.00 and $16,000,000.00 for the Weipat and Onoun schools and $3,000,000.00 to $5,000,000.00 each for the Eot, Pwene and Ettal elementary schools. Interested PRIME CONTRACTORS should include the following with their letters of interest:

1. Name of firm with address, phone and point of contact ( email)

2. Joint Venture Information (if applicable)

a. Bidder’s legal name

b. JV Partner or Subcontractor’s legal name, country and year of constitution

EXPRESSIONS OF INTEREST

c. JV Partner’s or Subcontractor’ authorized representative information (name, address, telephone, fax, email address)

3. Bonding Capability for a single contract action in the magnitude of this project as follows:

a. Performance Bond ( I 00%)

b. Payment Bond (100%)

c. Advance Payment Guarantee ( I 0%)

d. Bid Bond (5%)

4. Provide at least three(3) examples of projects of similar size/ scope described in the project description above over the past five(5) years

5. Demonstrate experience in the type of work at the similar contract value in a similar type of bidbuild building contract

6. Answer specifically the following market survey questions :

a. On how many projects, within the last five(5) years has your company

i. Managed (scoped, priced, procured and executed through local or other contractors) bid-build projects for construction of schools of similar nature

ii. Executed projects in the FSM Area (Pohnpei, Chuuk, Kosrae, Yap) and in the wider Micronesian Region (Guam, Northern Mariana Islands, Marshall Islands)

1. As a prime contractor

2. As a subcontractor

b. Submit Past Performance Records

I. Three (3) signed Reference Letters of other work satisfactorily completed

II. Bank Reference Letter

Responses 10 this expression of interest announcement will be used by the State Government to make appropriate acquisition decisions. NO SOLICITATION IS CURRENTLY AVAILABLE. It is a market research tool being utilized to determine the availability of potential qualified contractors before determining the method of acquisition.

Response Date: Friday March 31, 2023

Primary Point of Contact: Sanjata Basu, Project Manager, Chuuk Project Management Office email: sanjata.basu@gmail.com

Copy ofEOI must also be sent through email to:

Ms.

Wayleen

Fares

Assistant Chief of Staff

Office of the Governor, State of Chuuk email: wayleen@chuukstate.gov.fm

Human Resource Project Officer About the Pacific Islands Forum Secretariat

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.

About the Opportunity

The Forum Secretariat invites suitably experienced and qualified individuals to apply for the position of the Human Resource Officer Project Officer will provide support to the Team Leader in achieving the team’s strategic objectives, and by acting as the HR lead on a range of different projects and initiatives. Responsibilities include, but not limited to:

• HR Initiatives and Projects;

• Change Management;

• Stakeholder Coordination; and

• HR Generalist.

Applicants should have a university bachelor’s degree or equivalent in Human Resource Management, General Management/Business, Psychology, Sociology, Education or a related discipline (a post-graduate qualification in HRM or similar would be desirable) with substantial experience and excellent understanding in HR best practice and ability to apply this to project planning and implementation. Also experience of working in a multicultural environment in a regional or international organisation and in respect of Gender Equality, Diversity and Inclusion issues

About the Benefits

The position carries a competitive and attractive remuneration and benefits package including medical and life insurance, education and housing allowance. The position is placed at our Officer band of our scale with a starting base salary range from SDR27,494 to 31,020 (equivalent to FJD81,223 to FJD91,640) per annum. Amounts are based on 1 January foreign exchange rate but your final salary will be dependent on foreign exchange rates at the time of payment.

Interested applicants are encouraged to apply through our website: www. forumsec.org where an information package containing the position description and full remuneration details is available. Candidates must include in either their application or Curriculum Vitae the full contact details of three referees. 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.

Deadline for applications is at 5pm (Fiji time), 31 March 2023.

* 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.

Improved Water Resource Management and Emergency Communication in Chuuk State

UNDP

February 27, 2023

Chuuk, FSM – The United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) is committed to the improvement of the water resource management and emergency communication capacity for preparedness and mitigation of the Federated States of Micronesia (FSM). Under the Japan-funded project, entitled ‘Enhancing Disaster and Climate Resilience in the Federated States of Micronesia through improved Disaster Preparedness and Infrastructure (EDCR FSM Project)’, it aims to improve the capacity for preparedness and mitigation of FSM to man-made, geo-physical and climate- related hazards and to climate change impact. This was witnessed during a handover ceremony held on Monday 27 February and attended by Honorable Alexander R. Narruhn, Governor of Chuuk State, Honorable Andrew Yatilman, Secretary of Department of Environment, Climate Change and Emergency Management (DECEM), Honorable Faustino Stephen, Mayer, Weno Municipality, Mr. Yasutaka Okamoto, Second Secretary, Embassy of Japan to the FSM, Mr. Kevin Petrini, Deputy Resident Representative and Country Manager for the UNDP Pacific Office in the FSM, Mr. Kembo Mida Jr., CEO, Chuuk Public Utility Corporation, and Mr. Justin Fritz, Director, Chuuk Disaster and Emergency Operation Center.

UNDP through the EDCR FSM Project supported Chuuk Public Utility Corporation (CPUC) to improve their water management resources to enhance disaster and climate resilience capacity which benefited around 3,898 people with an increased production rate by 25 percent. CPUC has rehabilitated 14 deep wells and Water Treatment Plant. The UNDP has also supplied a water truck to distribute water to household during drought period.

Mr. Kembo Mida, Jr. Chief Executive Officer, Chuuk Public Utility Corporation, mentioned “CPUC generates 650,000 gallons of water a

day, or about 20 million gallons of portable water a month. In addition to increasing the production rate of water generation, the project gave us an opportunity to increase water production from surface water by up to 50% which will be cheaper than producing water from deep wells”. He continued “the water tanker in the past year and a half has delivered more than 2 million gallons of potable water to residents that live in the outer villages that do not have access to water”.

Mr. Yasutaka Okamoto, First Secretary, Embassy of Japan to the FSM said,I hope that these grants will help as many people in Chuuk State as possible to get the water they need in emergencies and in their daily lives.”

In his remarks during the hand-over ceremony, Mr. Kevin Petrini, Deputy Resident Representative and Country Manager for the UNDP Pacific Office in the FSM, highlighted “the Chuuk Women’s Council previously reflected on their experience, mentioning that women enjoyed having water and coming straight homes not worrying about collecting water which was very time-consuming”.

In the same handover ceremony, UNDP also handed over 25 High Frequency (HF) and nine Very High Frequency (VHF) radios to the Chuuk State to upgrade their emergency communications. The HF and VHF radio systems will enable communication over long distances, including between remote islands and areas with limited infrastructure. They will also provide reliable and efficient communication during emergencies, enabling rapid response times and the coordination of rescue efforts. The systems were carefully chosen to meet the specific needs of the country under tropical environment. The new HF radio has the function of selective calling system which can alert specific radio base without disturbing other bases and can send a short message, contributing for improving the quality of communication and coordination. The Department of Environment, Climate Change

Mr. Kembo Mida, Jr. Chief Executive Officer, Chuuk Public Utility Corporation; Honorable Mr. Andrew Yatilman, Secretary of the Department of Environment, Climate Change and Emergency Management Honorable; Alexander R. Narruhn, Governor of Chuuk State; Mr. Yasutaka Okamoto, Second Secretary, the Embassy of Japan to FSM;

Mr. Kevin Petrini, Deputy Resident Representative and Country Manager for the UNDP Pacific Office in the Federated States of Micronesia; Mr. Justin Fritz, Director, Chuuk Disaster and Emergency Operation Center (Photo: UNDP)

REQUEST FOR EXPRESSIONS OF INTEREST (REOI) SELECTION OF AN INDIVIDUAL CONSULTANT

Country: FEDERATED STATES OF MICRONESIA (FSM)

Project:

PACIFIC ISLANDS REGIONAL OCEANSCAPE

PROGRAM – ECONOMIC RESILIENCE (PROPER)

Grant No.:

IDA-V381-FM

Assignment Title: National Facilitation/Coordination Consultant – Yap State

Reference No.:

FM-DOFA-282368-CS-INDV

The Federated States of Micronesia has applied for financing from the World Bank toward the cost of the Pacific Islands Regional Oceanscape Program – Economic Resilience (PROPER) and intends to apply part of the proceeds for consulting services.

The consulting services (“the Services) will be to undertake the following work under the direction of the PROPER Project Manager, and working with FSM Central Implementation Unit (CIU) and other PROPER staff and consultants:

• Developing a good understanding of all Project relevant documents;

• Organizing meetings, field site visitations and logistics for visiting PROPER Project Consultants, staff and FSM National Government Departments/Agencies responsible for the PROPER Project preparation;

• Facilitating dialogue, engagement and collaboration among stakeholders of the Projects and between stakeholders and PROPER Consultants, including ensuring notification/participation by relevant people;

• Building support for the Project by communicating its development goals, objectives, and activities and ongoing progress within the State as directed;

• Assist PROPER Project staff and Consultants to collect and/or verify project preparation related data, reports and other information as required;

• Prepare and update briefs, records and other documents on project consultations such as meeting minutes, zoom recordings or workshop proceedings;

• Ability to travel and undertake fieldwork within the State and inter-state.

• Write reports and organize press conferences to promote project activities.

• Support the development of monthly progress reports.

• Supporting the development of monitoring and evaluation activities.

• To collect and monitor and share data on project activities, in particular play a key role in managing the Project’s State level targets.

The detailed Terms of Reference (TOR) for the assignment are attached and can be found at the following website: dofa.gov.fm or norma.fm.

The FSM Department of Finance & Administration

(DoFA) now invites eligible individuals (“Consultants”) to indicate their interest in providing the Services. Interested Consultants should provide information demonstrating that they have the required qualifications and relevant experience to perform the Services (attach curriculum vitae with description of experience in similar assignments, similar conditions, etc.). Firms’ staff may express interest through the employing firm for the assignment and, under such situation, only the experience and qualifications of individuals shall be considered in the selection process.

The criteria for selecting the Consultant are:

• Associate’s degree in Public Administration, Business Administration, Information Technology, or relevant field;

• Experience in governmental or State NGO affairs/ positions and/or similar leadership role;

• Demonstrated engagement in the community work with extensive network.

• Demonstrated ability to work effectively within diverse cultural and multi-disciplinary background while being able to operate within the local State administrative process.

• Demonstrated communication skills (including ability to communicate in the local State language), good oral and written English, report writing skills, and the ability to write for and to a variety of stakeholders;

• Demonstrated skills in coordination, organization, prioritization of workload and team work;

• Experience in organizing multi-stakeholder consultation meetings and workshops in the State;

• Good computer skills on Microsoft platforms and organizing or participating in virtual meetings.

The attention of interested Consultants (including firms) is drawn to paragraph 3.14, 3.16 and 3.17 of the World Bank’s Procurement Regulations for IPF Borrowers, 4th Edition, November 2020 (“the Regulations”), setting forth the World Bank’s policy on conflict of interest.

Further information can be obtained at the address below during office 0800 to 1700 hours Pohnpei local time.

Expressions of interest must be delivered in a written form to the address below (in person, or by mail, or by fax, or by e-mail) by 5:00 pm Pohnpei Time, on Friday, March 17, 2023.

FSM Department of Finance & Administration

Attn: Mr. Kwame Shiroya, CIU Program Manager

P.O. Box PS-158

Palikir, Pohnpei, 96941

Federated States of Micronesia

Tel: (691) 320-2639/2640

E-mail: kwame.shiroya@dofa.gov.fm and copy to ciu. dofa@gov.fm

United makes it easier for families to sit together

United

February 20, 2023

CHICAGO -- United today announced an improved family seating policy that makes it easier than ever for children under 12-years old to sit next to an adult in their party for free - including customers who purchase Basic Economy tickets.

United's new policy is made possible through a series of investments in a new seat map feature that dynamically finds available adjacent seats at the time of booking. The online seat engine first reviews all available free Economy seats and then opens complimentary upgrades to available Preferred Seats, if needed.

Customers traveling with children under 12 will start to see more adjacent seat options immediately and the complete policy change will go into effect in early March.

In instances when adjacent seats are not available prior to travel - due to things like last minute bookings, full flights or unscheduled aircraft changes – United's new policy also lets customers switch for free to a flight to the same destination with adjacent seat availability in the same cabin. Customers also won't be charged if there is a difference in fare price between the original and new flight.

"In an era where more families are working in a hybrid environment, they're traveling more often – and they're flying United," said Linda Jojo, Chief Customer Officer for United. "We're focused on delivering a great experience for our younger passengers and their parents and know it often starts with the right seat. We look forward to rolling out more family-friendly features this year."

Many airlines try and use a more manual process to seat families together that can include blocking random seats or asking agents to facilitate seat swaps at the gate. Those circumstances often result in more stress and a longer boarding process for everyone.

Today's announcement reflects the investments United has made in its technology and tools. Since last summer, the airline has worked to improve its ability to seat families together more easily by optimizing the airline's seat engine to prioritize families who did not have seats assigned before their day of travel and prioritize adjacent seating for families during schedule changes, aircraft swaps or irregular operations.

United Polaris®, United First Class® and Economy Plus® seats remain separate products and are excluded from this family seating policy change.

U.S. Coast Guard delivers 4,500 lbs of supplies to Federated States of Micronesia atolls

U.S. Coast Guard Forces Micronesia / Sector Guam

February 27, 2023

SANTA RITA, Guam — The crew of USCGC Oliver Henry (WPC 1140) returned to Guam on Monday, Feb. 27, 2023, following a week-long deployment to the Federated States of Micronesia countering illegal fishing and strengthening partnerships with the local island communities of several Yap outer island atolls, part of the ongoing Operation Rematau.

During the patrol, the crew supported partners in the Federated States of Micronesia, completing four port calls and four community relations events. They also provided underway training opportunities for eight members assigned to temporary duty on the ship. They enhanced the ongoing U.S. Coast Guard and U.S. Navy partnership, embarking two medical personnel from U.S. Naval Hospital Guam.

Partnering with the Ayuda Foundation, the Oliver Henry crew onloaded more than 4,500 lbs. of supplies generously donated by local businesses and community members in Guam for future transport to remote islands in Ulithi and Woleai atolls. Donated supplies included educational material, clothing, kitchenware, fishing gear,

toys, shelf-stable meals, interior paint, marine-grade orange paint, marine fiberglass repair kits, and water pumps. Water pumps were specifically requested to divert standing water from the airfield on Falalop Island, Woleai, to nearby taro fields to facilitate uninterrupted flight services from mainland Yap.

Oliver Henry’s first stop was Ulithi Atoll, the second time a fast response cutter visited the atoll. Ulithi was a central U.S. staging area during World War II, and home to a U.S. Coast Guard Loran-C communications station from 1944 to 1965 before operations relocated to Yap and ultimately shuttered in 1987. During the visit, the Oliver Henry crew met with community members on the islands of Mogmog and Falalop and participated in a friendly basketball game with Outer Islands High School students in Falalop, Ulithi.

Their second stop was Woleai Atoll, which marked the first-ever visit by a fast response cutter to this remote atoll. Ten five-gallon buckets of orange paint were delivered to Woleai and will be further distributed to the outer islands for use on skiffs and small vessels. The Orange Paint Initiative seeks to improve the visibility of small vessels by making their hulls more visible,

which is vital to responders in search and rescue instances. In addition to offloading donated supplies and meeting with community members, the Oliver Henry crew also rendered assistance by troubleshooting issues with a solar power supply unit and marine radio communications equipment. Further, the Oliver Henry crew also deployed an aerial drone to capture imagery of infrastructure on the principal island of Falalop, Woleai.

“Nothing is more heartwarming for the crew than to experience what we just completed during our visits to Ulithi and Woleai. It was evident the island communities reciprocated these feelings,” said Lt. Freddy Hofschneider, commanding officer of Oliver Henry. “They welcomed us with smiles, flower leis, and open arms, and we truly enjoyed their hospitality. Transporting supplies to these remote atolls is nothing new for the Coast Guard, and we are honored to join in on the tradition spanning several decades for Guam-based Coast Guard cutter crews. We thank the Ayuda Foundation for spearheading donation collection efforts and look forward to continued opportunities to strengthen relationships with our brothers and sisters across Micronesia in a manner that supports their way of life.”

The Oliver Henry is the 40th 154-foot Sentinel-class fast response cutter named for Oliver T. Henry, Jr., an enlisted African American Coast Guard member first to break the color barrier of a then-segregated Service. During World War II, Henry served under Lt. Cmdr. Carlton Skinner. The latter became the first civilian Governor of Guam and played a critical role in developing the Organic Act in 1950. Henry blazed a trail for minorities in the U.S. military as he climbed from enlisted ranks while serving on ten Coast Guard cutters, finally retiring as a chief warrant officer in 1966.

Operation Rematau is how U.S. Coast Guard Forces Micronesia/Sector Guam supports the overarching Coast Guard endeavor Operation Blue Pacific to promote security, safety, sovereignty, and economic prosperity in Oceania. Rematau means people of the deep sea. It recognizes the wisdom of the Pacific Island Forum leaders in that securing the future requires long-term vision and a carefully considered regional strategy for the Blue Pacific Continent. Op Rematau reinforces U.S. commitment to working together to advance Pacific regionalism based on the Blue Pacific narrative. This action supports U.S. national security objectives, bolstering regional maritime governance and security.

The crew of USCGC Oliver Henry (WPC 1140) loads more than 4,500 pounds of donations from the Ayuda Foundation bound for Yap State in the Federated States of Micronesia on Feb. 8, 2023. The crew of USCGC Oliver Henry (WPC 1140) conducted a week-long deployment to the Federated States of Micronesia in support of Operation Rematau, countering illegal fishing and strengthening partnerships with the local island communities of several Yap outer island atolls. (U.S. Coast Guard photo Chief Warrant Officer Sara Muir)

The crew of USCGC Oliver Henry (WPC 1140) loads more than 4,500 pounds of donations from the Ayuda Foundation bound for Yap State in the Federated States of Micronesia on Feb. 8, 2023. The crew of USCGC Oliver Henry (WPC 1140) conducted a week-long deployment to the Federated States of Micronesia in support of Operation Rematau, countering illegal fishing and strengthening partnerships with the local island communities of several Yap outer island atolls. (U.S. Coast Guard photo Chief Warrant Officer Sara Muir)

FSM is about to complete its first Coconut National Export Strategy

CocoNES Secretariat

March 13, 2023

The Government of FSM has completed the 2nd round of Stakeholders’ consultation to validate the Coconut National Export Strategy (CocoNES) across the 4 States. The Strategy consultations were facilitated with technical assistance of ITC (a joint agency of the UN and the WTO), namely Ms. Amaliia Mkhitarian, a project focal point, during her 2-week mission in the FSM. The CocoNES is a first-ever endeavor of the National government to develop the coconut sector into a stable and sustainable industry for the wellbeing of FSM communities.

During this consultation, stakeholders from both the public and private sector were able to review and validate the strategic framework and the plan of action for a 5-year coconut sector development. The participants also agreed on the implementation mechanism to turn the strategy into reality. The Strategy is based on three building blocks: consistent, quality, and sustainable supply and processing; conducive business conditions; and capacities to enter foreign markets. To achieve the Strategy’s targets, stakeholders will need to implement and coordinate specified actions, monitor progress and mobilize the necessary resources.

This second consultation saw representation from agencies such as FSM Departments of Resources & Development and Health & Social Affairs, Pohnpei State Departments of Land and Transportation & Infrastructure, local municipal governments of Pingelap, Kitti, and Nukuoro, Micronesia Conservation Trust, and COM-CRE in Pohnpei; Chuuk State Department of Agriculture, Chuuk EPA, COM-CRE, and Vital FSMPC in Chuuk; Yap Cooperative Association, Waab Transportation Company, Communities of Maap, Gagil, & Tomil, CTSI, and Coco Inc. in Yap; Kosrae State Department of Resources & Economic Affairs, Utwe Municipal Government and Women in Farming Kosrae/Kosrae Women Association in Kosrae.

The consultations have had significant participation from all levels of

Government, trade support institutions, and the private sector, including the representation of FSM women. It was encouraging to see active engagement of women at all levels of strategy design. The CocoNES team would like to extend our sincerest appreciation to all stakeholders, who have bridged the space between cultures, languages, and interests of the 4 unique FSM States and provided the critical information and input into the development of the Coconut National Export Strategy.

Rotary Club of Pohnpei Quiz Night

Rotary Club of Pohnpei

Pohnpei--After a 4-year hiatus, the Rotary Club of Pohnpei held its annual Quiz Night once again on Saturday, February 25, 2023. The successful event was held at the Mangrove Bay Restaurant and had over 200 participants and guests in attendance. The winning team included Alissa Bibb, Andy Dana, Frank Talluto, Linda Talluto, Jeff Seely, and Karen Wonders. They graciously donated their $600 prize back to the Rotary Club of Pohnpei to benefit their scholarship program. The winners of the round-trip tickets were Jeff Seeley and Bernard Machomai, Jr.

A huge thank you to the sponsors: Bank of Guam, Bank of FSM, CTSI, Matson Shipping, FSM Development Bank, MRA, Moylan’s Insurance, Matson/AMCRES, Best Buy/One World Plaza, Western and Central Pacific Fisheries Commission, MRAG, Vital, COM-FSM, Pingelap Municipal Government, Mangrove Bay Bar, Genesis, 7Stars, and Village Travel, Ace Office Supply, Pohnpei Swim Club, Island Palm Hotel, LP Gas, Pohnpei Surf Club, Pohnpei Napa Auto Parts, Ace Hardware, Blue Nile, Town’s Diner, Merip, Imelda’s Shoes, Joy Hotel & Restaurant, FSM Telecommunications Corporation, and Etscheit Enterprises. Also, a big thanks to Mangrove Bay and its staff for hosting and for all the hard work.

The Rotary Club, with everyone’s support, raised over $10,000. This money is used to support The Rotary Club of Pohnpei scholarship program along with numerous other projects, including the traffic mirror project, teenage women's health project, and other health and safety-related projects.

The Rotary Club of Pohnpei thanks everyone for their support. We hope to see you next year!

PNA has started its MSC reassessment – FADs and Bigeye included

Compartmentalization requirement extended

Pacifical

The PNA has started the process of MSC recertification for the entire PNA purse seine fishery, which will now be assessed against the new MSC standard (V2.01). The reassessment includes Freeschool and FAD – skipjack, yellowfin and bigeye. The Announcement Comment Draft Report (ACDR) has been published last week in the MSC website. Our Pacifical team is happy to share this news with each one of you.

The outcome of the last year's attempt to get a scope extension for bigeye and FADs was disappointing, but it only strengthened the determination of our region to prove that our fishery is fully sustainable, and it encouraged the Pacific nations to not give up on its position. At Pacifical we are confident this process is on track to result in a positive outcome.

Flashback: The second half of 2022 the PNA went through a lengthy and arduous dispute process of adjudication. The objection prevented the PNA, the world’s largest, the best managed and most sustainable fishery to get MSC for for bigeye and FAD captures. The decision confused stakeholders since multiple tuna fishing companies operating in PNA waters had already obtained FAD and bigeye MSC certifications without any objection whatsoever. There are now 11 certified purse seine fisheries, of which 10 hold the sustainable logo for bigeye. The paradox was simply-put, mind blowing. How most of these 11 certifications could pass on bigeye, all of them on FADs, yet the group of island nations that manage these waters and monitor these companies day in and day out would be denied? Same waters, same gear, same vessels and same management measures? We have now entered into round two. The world is watching.

The ACDR is available for comments until April 23. Stakeholders who wish to raise any remarks must contact the CAB in charge, Acoura Marine Ltd (9(LRQA).

Update on Compartmentalization Rule:

The deadline for the MSC compartmentalization rule has been extended to 21 September 2023.

This is an important topic. As you might recall, the addition of FADs to the current certification was not one PNA willingly decided to take on, it was rather forced upon the island nations after pressure by certain commercial market parties and NGOs. This is the same group who submitted the objection for FAD scope extension and earlier demanded an end to compartmentalization. Compartmentalization means having MSC and non-MSC fish onboard a seiner, segregated in compartments. This change in the MSC rules now requires the PNA MSC certified fishery to include not only free school sets but also FAD sets. The effective date of this new MSC requirement was initially set for March 25, 2023, on PNA’s request the deadline has now been extended to 21 September 2023.

We are thankful to all Pacifical partners for their support to the PNA island communities throughout this process by continuing to source MSC skipjack and yellowfin from their waters . We will continue to keep you posted.

Pacific Week of Agriculture and Forestry: The Pacific kava sector anticipates export growth

and eyes major global markets

Pacific Community

09 March 2023

Nadi, Fiji – Pacific kava is in high demand, after the opening of Australian markets to commercial imports, raising hopes for increased interest across other global markets in Asia, North America, and the European Union.

Pacific kava exporters and farmers showcased this growth potential at the Pacific Week of Agriculture and Forestry (PWAF) taking place from 6-10 March in Nadi, Fiji.

The “Pacific Kava: Rooting the industry in exports” event was organised by the Pacific Community (SPC) in collaboration with the Pacific Islands Forum Secretariat (PIFS) and funded by the European Union through the Safe Agricultural Trade Facilitation through Economic Integration in the Pacific (SAFE Pacific) project. Public and private sector stakeholders, Pacific government representatives, non-governmental organisations, farmers, and exporters from across the region took part.

Assistant Minister-Office of the Prime Minister for Fiji, Sakiusa Tubuna, explained that kava is a significant commodity for the Pacific Islands culturally, socially and economically. “In 2021, Fiji exported $ 41.9 million worth of kava. It is one of our largest agricultural exports,” he said during his opening address.

“Today, the interest in Kava is not exclusive to Pacific people. There’s been a transition over the past few decades, where the plant has become a growing export commodity. We’ve seen this Pacific plant go beyond being a cultural beverage - with kava-infused food and even entry into pharmaceuticals.”

The event provided a space to reflect on the progress of the kava sector nationally, with several Pacific countries reporting on their current kava status, as well as regionally.

Fiji’s Greengold Kava Managing Director Praveen Narayan said when Australia opened its market, the number of exporters increased. “We have 375 kava exporters registered in Fiji mainly due to our vuvale (family relationship) with Australia and this has increased from 114 exporters in September last year.”

Samoa Kava exporter Eddie Wilson said it was important to look at past experiences when kava was first banned by European markets, and the regional effort to regain market access by improving local kava standards for processing and exporting it as a safe food commodity.

“The success of the kava was because we had huge markets for kava extract and medicinal markets. Really, the future lies in working with our partners, the European Union and Germany and promote kava extracts in the medicinal markets and increase recognition of kava as a safe commodity.”

A key update at the side-event was the announcement of the Regional Kava Strategy launch that will be taking place in July. The development of the strategy is being led by PIFS, with plans to organise Kava Strat Working Group meetings followed by Regional Socialization before being presented to the Validation Workshop.

The growing export market for kava in Vanuatu, Tonga and Fiji has led to a fledgling sector in traditionally nonkava drinking countries such as the Solomon Islands.

“We’re starting to look at how we can ensure proper accreditation for our facilities and promote proper manufacturing practices that align to international standards,” said Solomon Islands Kava Industry Chairperson Wale Tobata “We are also thinking of developing a national kava strategy and a business plan.”

The Solomon Islands is currently exporting processed kava to Micronesia and unprocessed kava to the United States.

“We are grateful to be able to meet with Pacific leaders, our development partners, and the European Union to have these critical discussions to strengthen regional collaboration on the kava sector, and to recognise it as a mainstay of the agricultural commodity,” said Dr. Viliami Kami, SPC Land Resources Division Markets for Livelihoods Programme Manager. “PWAF sheds light on Pacific solidarity towards improving the livelihoods of our people and it is spaces like these where we’re able to strategise and reflect on how we strengthen our collaborative efforts in this sector.”

Pacific Agriculture and Forestry

Heads seek sector transformation at first in-person meeting in four years

Pacific Community

10 March 2023

Nadi, Fiji – In their first meeting since the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic, the Heads of Agriculture and Forestry for Pacific Countries tackled an ambitious agenda set on transforming the sectors to create thriving and resilient communities for the future.

The meeting held on 9 March during the Pacific Week of Agriculture and Forestry (PWAF) with the theme Growing Together: Transforming Pacific Agriculture and Forestry, brought together 22 Pacific nations and territories that are members of the Pacific Community (SPC). The meeting was chaired by the government of Fiji with support from SPC and the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO).

Vanuatu was not able to attend due to ongoing recovery from the disastrous back-to-back cyclones Judy and Kevin, unfortunate reminders of the region’s perilous position in the face of climate change and increasing calamity.

“The Pacific region is unique,” said Dr Vinesh Kumar, Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Agriculture, Fiji, in his opening remarks. “Yet, when we look closely, we are facing some of the same challenges as other regions, such as climate change, emerging pests and diseases, and threats to our biodiversity. We need to have discussions in different spheres at different levels so there is no asymmetry in our work.”

In addition to climate change, the meeting covered a few current issues considered vital for thriving agriculture and forestry-based economies of the future, including the development of Pacific agriculture and forestry strategy, a regional research agenda that will produce invaluable knowledge for strategic planning and initiative, a review of the current Pacific Soils Partnership, and food and nutrition security.

While reporting on technical networks SPC hosts such as the Pacific Plant Protection Organization and the Pacific Organic Agriculture and Trade Community (POETCom) were also covered, SPC's Land Resources

Division Director Karen Mapusua stressed in her remarks that the Heads and their Ministries are providing strategic leadership of the agriculture and forestry work in the region.

“You and your ministries, your collective knowledge and experience, are the cornerstone,” said Ms Mapusua.

“Not only of our Blue and Green Pacific food system, but also our climate change response, the application of better science and leading-edge technology, and the agriculture and forestry sectors’ contribution to our leaders' vision as expressed in the 2050 strategy for the Blue Pacific Continent.”

Ms Xiangjin Yao, FAO Subregional Coordinator for the Pacific Islands spoke of the importance of collaboration in moving agriculture and forestry forward. “FAO values the contribution of regional entities, such as SPC, SPREP, PIFS, and others to Pacific countries and the trust member nations have shown in it,” she said in her opening remarks. “By combining our strengths and resources, we will be able to create new opportunities, expand our reach, and contribute to the growth and development of respective sectors for the member countries in the Pacific.”

The Fiji Ministry of Forestry echoed the importance of the Heads meeting and the necessity of close collaboration in its closing statement. “The need to work together, to grow together, to transform agriculture and forestry, is greater now more than ever. Using science and technology to develop circular green economies is needed and the various side-events at PWAF highlighted many of our issues and different ways to address them.”

The meeting adjourned with agreement on carrying the Pacific-wide agriculture and forestry strategy forward and taking the next steps on the agenda for regional research. Agriculture and Forestry Heads also agreed to partner on a joint submission to the UNFCCC agriculture workstream. The submission will highlight a strong commitment to shared action against common climate challenges, ensuring the Pacific has a seat at the table in upcoming global climate consultations.

Last chance to apply for Graduate Scholarship in Tokyo

There is one last chance to get information on a full scholarship in Global Environmental Studies at Sophia University in Tokyo, Japan. With a March 31 deadline to apply for admission and the scholarship, an online information briefing on March 17 is the last chance to learn about this extremely generous scholarship. The scholarship is for citizens of the Federated States of Micronesia, Republic of Palau and Republic of the Marshall Islands.

The scholarship will pay all expenses to earn a Master’s Degree in Global Environmental Studies from the prestigious Sophia University’s Graduate School of Global Environmental Studies. The scholarship is offered by Sophia University, the Association for Promotion of International Cooperation, a private foundation based in Tokyo, and the Micronesia Conservation Trust (MCT).

To find out more please plan on joining the information briefing online via Zoom. It will be on Friday, March 17 at the following times: 1 pm in the Marshall Islands; 12 noon in Kosrae, and Pohnpei; 11 a.m. in Chuuk, Yap; Guam and Saipan; and, 10 a.m. in Palau and Japan.

The Zoom session:

• https://us06web.zoom.us/j/836

26132429?pwd=Sms2MTNMelkyOXg

5ZDZzd2hWTnkyUT09

• meeting ID: 836 2613 2429

• passcode: 065976

The deadline for applying for the scholarship is fast approaching, as is the deadline to apply to Sophia University. The Master’s Degree in Global Environmental Studies is offered in English. Sophia University is ranked as one of the top research universities in Japan.

Pacific Islands Forum to observe FSM General Election

Pacific Islands Forum Secretariat

06 March 2023

Suva, Fiji: The Pacific Islands Forum (PIF) will observe the Federated States of Micronesia (FSM) General Election on 7 March 2023. The Forum Team is lead by Ms. Rosalie Motellang, a senior Election Officer with the Republic of the Marshall Islands Electoral Administration, and is supported by Forum Secretariat staff.

PIF Secretary General Henry Puna acknowledged the significant milestone this opportunity presented for the Forum to support the people of the Federated States of Micronesia. “I thank the FSM Government for the invitation to observe this important election, and commend its commitment to transparency and democracy under the frameworks that promote good governance in our region”.

Forum Election Observer Missions

are conducted under the Biketawa Declaration 2000, the Pacific’s regional commitment to good governance. In the lead up to polling day the Forum Team have been meeting with a wide range of stakeholders to the election including representatives of

the Government, Election Officials, candidates, various civil society groups and the Police.

The Forum officials will observe polling in Pohnpei State on the 7th March. Contesting 14 seats in the Congress of the Federated States of Micronesia are 29 candidates (26 men and 3 women) across the four States of Chuuk, Pohnpei, Kosrae and Yap. Each State elects one candidate as its ‘At-Large’ representative to serve a term of four years.

The other ten elected representatives serve a two-year term. Following the election, the Congress will elect the President and Vice President from amongst the four At-Large elected representatives. The President and Vice President then immediately vacate their seats in Congress, leaving the two At-Large seats they were elected from empty until a Special Election later in the year.

At the conclusion of its mission the Forum Team will make a preliminary post-election statement capturing a summary of its findings and observations, and a final report shortly thereafter.

PICRC’s coral restoration project and collaboration in Ngaraard continues

Palau International Coral Reef Center (PICRC)

The team from the Palau Aquarium at the Palau International Coral Reef Center (PICRC) recently returned to Ngaraard State to continue with the coral restoration project. The patch reefs on the west side of the State were heavily damaged by typhoon Mike in 1990 and the reef still hasn’t recovered to its former beauty. This project was requested by the governor of Ngaraard to see if coral restoration would be appropriate and beneficial.

In October last year, the Aquarium team performed a site assessment of the closest patch reef to measure the coral community. The results showed a high degree of coral bleaching and a significantly lower number of branching corals inside the lagoon, compared to those further out. The team also recorded a high percentage of dead coral rubble on top of the patch reef. Two local rangers were trained in scientific monitoring methods to track the degree of bleaching across the following three months. According to the data collected, no bleaching was observed after mid-November. However, there was a significant decline in live coral cover on the patch reef.

On Friday, February 17th, the Aquarium team met with the local rangers in Ngaraard and returned to the reef to begin the coral restoration. It was decided that after a bleaching event was the best time to propagate the corals that remained healthy, as these have already displayed tolerance to increased ocean temperatures. “This is the first-time this method has been used for coral propagation in Palau,” said Aquarium Researcher, Daniel Cassidy. “It was developed and has been successful in Indonesia. Using a standardized method will allow us to compare the results with that study.”

The aquarium team used hexagonal structures, termed “spiders”, to attach loose coral fragments that were found tumbling across the coral rubble. These

corals were used as they’re unlikely to survive without a solid foundation.

The “spiders” are also coated in sand, to encourage natural coral settlement. Ten of these “spiders” were placed on the patch reef. The aquarium team will monitor these for the next three months to measure coral growth and survival. After three months, the team will assess if the project is successful and should be scaled-up, or if an alternative method is needed. This work would not be possible without the commitment and dedication of the state rangers and the governor of Ngaraard.

“Before typhoon Mike, these patch reefs were full of life with branching coral, fish, and plants,” said the state rangers. “We look forward to the day it will return to its former condition.”

“We’re treating this initial stage as a pilot project, with scope to further collaborate with the community. Over time, if the restoration is successful, we should see more life return to the area,” stated aquarium supervisor, Asap Bukurrou.

With predictions showing climate change will continue to intensify, causing increasing ocean temperatures, the group plans to see how these restored corals can build a more resilient local coral community.

Heads of the Pacific’s government audit offices gather in Palau for PASAI’s 24th Congress

Pacific Association of Supreme Audit Institutions

Koror, Palau- More than 60 people from countries across the Pacific and from as far away as Brazil, the USA and Norway attended the first in-person Congress the Pacific Association of Supreme Audit Institutions (PASAI) was able to hold since 2019.

Representatives of 22 PASAI member offices, supporting development partners and dignitaries from local and overseas ministries attended the four-day meeting hosted by the Office of the Public Auditor for the Republic of Palau from 28 February to 3 March 2023.

The Controller and Auditor-General of New Zealand, John Ryan, in his capacity as the Secretary-General of PASAI, spoke of the significance of the attendance of the President of the Brazilian Federal Court of Accounts and newly appointed Chair of the International Organization of Supreme Audit Institutions (INTOSAI), Minister Bruno Dantas.

“We were honoured to hear directly from Minister Dantas on his first international trip as INTOSAI Chair,” said Mr Ryan.

“He acknowledged the importance of the ‘Blue Economy’, conveyed how environmental audits are a focus of INTOSAI and invited our member audit offices to contribute to the global ClimateScanner, a tool that will enable the assessment of each government’s action on climate change,” Mr Ryan added.

The theme of the four-day Congress was ‘Looking to the future,’ which enabled auditors general, public auditors, PASAI Secretariat staff and other attendees to reflect on PASAI’s progress nearly nine years into its 10 year Strategic Plan and start work developing its next strategy with help from a facilitator from Beasley Intercultural.

Congress attendees also benefited from presentations and video contributions by:

• Dr Margit Kraker, INTOSAI Secretary-General;

• Kaleb S Udui Jr, Minister of Finance, Government of Palau;

• Richelle Turner, the Australian Ambassador to Palau;

• Anhela Bochi, PFM Technical Specialist, the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) Pacific Office;

• Archana Shirsat and Shofiql Islam, INTOSAI Development Initiative;

• Leonard Chan, Senior Advisor, New Zealand Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade

• Patricia McKenzie, Practice Manager, World Bank

• Vivi Niemenmaa, SecretaryGeneral, INTOSAI Working Group on Environmental Auditing;

• Jessica Du, Editor of the International Journal of Government Auditing and Government Accountability Office USA; and

• Jason Aubuchan and Drummond Kahn, Graduate School USA.

Through a series of panel discussions comprised mainly of heads of member audit offices, Congress attendees also reflected on issues related to institutional independence, securing quality in a SAI’s core mandate and enabling audit impact.

Preceding Congress on 27 February 2023, PASAI’s Governing Board held its 33rd meeting and agreed on recommendations for the approval of Congress. Among those adopted was the admission of the Australian Capital Territory Audit Office and the Office of the Auditor General for Western Australia as new PASAI members.

PASAI released a communiqué after the event and looks forward to the next Congress hosted by the Cook Islands Audit Office in 2024.

PASAI acknowledges the support of the New Zealand Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade (MFAT) and the Australian Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade (DFAT).

ICOMOS coordinates new global initiative to safeguard heritage from climate change

ICOMOS announced today a new global initiative to safeguard sites of cultural significance from the impacts of climate change.

Preserving Legacies : A Future for our Past will equip communities worldwide with the tools to accurately assess worsening and future climate impacts on cultural heritage sites in order to rescue them before it is too late.

ICOMOS is partnering with National Geographic Society and the Climate Heritage Network, as well as with local communities and site management teams to carry out the Manulife-funded project.

People and their cultural heritage, both tangible and intangible, are increasingly vulnerable to climate change hazards.

The resulting impacts on monuments, inherited traditions, and knowledge systems in turn affects values, livelihoods, and identity, with profound consequences for communities. And yet cultural heritage is rarely prioritised in national and international climate change policy agendas. To fill this gap, there is an urgent need to equip communities worldwide with the tools to accurately anticipate and assess worsening and future climate impacts on culture, and help them turn that scientific knowledge into action to safeguard sites.

Preserving Legacies : A Future for our Past is carrying out the project on 10 heritage sites, including 2 primary sites:

the Rice Terraces of the Philippine

Cordilleras, Philippines; Petra, Jordan; and 8 observer sites:

Angkor Archeological Park, Cambodia; Border Fields, USA ; Historical Mosque City of Bagerhat, Bangladesh; Nan Madol, Micronesia; Levuka, Fiji; Koutammakou, the Land of the Batammariba, Togo and Benin; Sceilg Mhichil, Ireland; Port, Fortress, and Group of Monuments at Cartagena, Columbia. At the 2 primary sites, Preserving Legacies will link climate science and site conservation by enabling access to locally downscaled climate change models, and supporting site custodians with the training to organise communityled, values-based assessments of the

sites’ climate vulnerability as well as impacts on local communities.

Observer sites will engage fully in climate heritage trainings and a peerto-peer learning experience.

Participants from all sites will help grow an international community of practice focused on climate action at the intersections of cultural heritage and climate adaptation.

The program integrates scientific, local, and Indigenous knowledge to find sustainable and culturally appropriate solutions to the long-term preservation of cultural heritage sites. The goal is to foster better approaches to adaptation and learning from past ancestral practices to safeguard values for the next generations.

Fresh horizons with new US-Pacific Trade and Investment Dialogue

28th February 2023

Suva FIJI — Trade and investment opportunities between the US and Pacific are expected to gain traction, with the first iteration of the US-Pacific Trade and Investment Dialogue today. The dialogue was held virtually, supported by the Pacific Islands Forum Secretariat and US Government and attended by senior officials from: trade, investment and fisheries agencies from each Forum Member country; the Office of the US Trade Representative; US Department of State; US International Development Finance Cooperation; US Department of Conservation; US Department of Transportation; US National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration; US Agency for International Development; US Trade and Development Agency; and the US National Security Council.

The dialogue follows the US-Pacific Island Country Summit in Washington DC on 28-29 September 2022. At the summit, the US committed to establishing a US-Pacific Island Country

Trade and Investment Dialogue in 2023, to credibly target the region’s trade and investment needs.

In today’s sessions, the Pacific outlined their priority areas for closer US-Pacific Island Country engagement on regional and national trade, investment and development cooperation needs, and the US outlined how best to leverage resources and programmes to support priority areas. The dialogue covered a range of topics, including – aid-for-trade;

private sector development; investment; utilisation of the Generalised System of Preferences; a special trade and investment arrangement; and the rulesbased multilateral trading order.

The Pacific Islands Forum Secretariat’s Director of Programme and Initiatives, Mr Zarak Khan, said, “as the US looks to strengthen its partnership in the region, we welcome Forum Members’ commitment and willingness to work closely with the US by indicating

regional and national trade and investment priorities and reiterating the importance of having an ongoing dialogue that leads to tangible outcomes as equal partners”.

Fiji’s Permanent Secretary for Trade, Cooperatives and SMEs and Communications, Mr Shaheen Ali, said, “trade and investment play a critical role — especially for small island economies — in our pursuit of sustainable and inclusive economic growth. But as island economies, we are limited in resources and capacity. We are vulnerable to external shocks, such as climate change that hinder our growth. Despite our challenges, there is immense potential in our people. By working together, as a region, we can create stronger people to people connections that usher greater economic integration. In this regard, the US will play a critical role in supporting our efforts to increase trade and investment opportunities in the region”.

The second iteration of the Dialogue will happen in-person at Ministerial level in the margins of the Forum Trade Ministers’ Meeting, later in 2023

Statement by Secretary of Defense Lloyd J. Austin III on AUKUS

Optimal Pathway Announcement

March 13, 2023

Today, I was honored to join President Biden, Australian Prime Minister Albanese, and U.K. Prime Minister Sunak as they announced the AUKUS Optimal Pathway, a commitments-based, phased plan for Australia to acquire conventionally-armed, nuclear-powered submarines. This is the next step forward in the transformational partnership among our three great democracies.

In September 2021, the United States, Australia, and the United Kingdom laid out an ambitious vision for our countries that will strengthen our combined military capabilities, boost our defense industrial capacity, enhance our ability to deter aggression, and promote our shared goal of a free and open Indo-Pacific. AUKUS is a shared, long-term investment that will allow us to build defense advantages that endure for decades to come.

One of the most important parts of this partnership is increasing each of our countries’ submarine capabilities. Under the first phase of the Optimal Pathway, the United States and the United Kingdom will immediately increase port visits of conventionally-armed, nuclear-powered submarines in Australia and then, as early as 2027, will begin rotating through Australia under Submarine Rotational Force-West. In the next phase, the United States intends to sell three Virginia-class

Climate Resilience for Business Sustainability Training for the Private Sector

submarines to Australia in the 2030s, with the potential to sell up to two more if needed. Finally, Australia and the United Kingdom will develop and deploy SSN-AUKUS, a new conventionallyarmed, nuclear-powered submarine that incorporates critical U.S. technologies. Each phase of the Optimal Pathway will set the highest nuclear nonproliferation standards.

We’re also working to strengthen our countries’ industrial bases; to eliminate barriers to information-sharing and technological cooperation; and to develop and deliver advanced capabilities in such areas as artificial intelligence, hypersonics, and maritime domain awareness. All these investments will allow us to work more closely with our valued and highly capable allies to deter aggression in the Indo-Pacific—a region whose future is crucial for U.S. national security and the rules-based international order that makes us all safer.

I would like to thank the many public servants in all three proud democracies whose hard work has made this historic announcement possible. I look forward to working with my team and with our Australian and British counterparts to continue to move toward our shared vision of a stable, secure Indo-Pacific and an open world of rules and rights.

Forum Secretariat

February 01, 2023

Suva – Over one hundred participants from across the Pacific region will be part of a tailor-made climate resilience for sustainability training programme.

The participants represent the private sector in the region and will be beneficiaries to this virtual training programme which focuses on climate change and its impact on Pacific business.

Adaptation and mitigation strategies as well as enabling participants to identify and tap into funding sources to implement climate adaptation measures for organizational sustainability, will be key components of the training.

The course will also cover a range of topics aimed at equiping participants with knowledge, tools, and techniques in areas of alternative energy options, food security, data analysis, and business sustainability.

Upon completion of all twelve modules of this training, expected to be in late June, participants will receive a certificate of completion from USP Pacific TAFE.

Acting Secretary General, Dr. Filimon Manoni, acknowledged the support from the European Union while congratulating the participants, and encouraged them to

make the most of the opportunity.

“On the whole, our region recognizes the critical role that the private sector plays in building the resilience of communities in the Pacific, and building on this, the 2050 Strategy for the Blue Pacific Continent emphasizes that we work as a collective as countries and stakeholders – including the private sector,” said Dr. Manoni.

He also added that “In 2022, Forum Economic Ministers emphasized the need for all of us to strengthen our economies, particularly in the post-COVID era. And as part of this they highlighted the key role that the private sector must play in this.”

Zarak Khan, Director of Programmes and Initiatives at the Pacific Islands Forum Secretariat said it is encouraging to see continued donor support towards helping strengthen the capacity of our private sector stakeholders.

“It is good to see the private sector’s interest in upskilling themselves with respect to impending climate change issues. Having a better understanding of these key issues will not only enable the participants to respond to climate change better but also allow businesses to be more sustainable in the future,”said Khan.

New report on digital economy in the Pacific launched

Forum Secretariat

01 March 2023

The Digital Economy Report: Pacific Edition of 2022 was launched on 16 February at a regional event hosted by the Pacific Islands Forum. The report offers new research and data on the digital economy and focuses on the development and policy implications of digital transformation in the Pacific.

More than 200 policymakers and private sector representatives gathered to discuss how digital technologies can lead to higher standards of living in the Pacific through job creation, higher incomes and more trade.

Acting Secretary General of the Pacific Islands Forum, Dr. Filimon Manoni, welcomed the report, saying “its findings are a timely fit for the Pacific’s 2050 strategy and will inform partners and members on how to perform effective policymaking, development programming

and regional cooperation initiatives in the area of e-commerce and digital transformation.”

“This is the first in-depth research report on the digital economy in the Pacific region,” said Ms. Rebeca Grynspan, Secretary-General of the UN Conference on Trade and Development (UNCTAD).

“Inclusion should be placed at the center of the digital development agenda in the Pacific. All people, businesses, communities and countries should benefit from the digital economy.”The report sets out the digital challenges facing the region due to the geographical location, remoteness from the main market, high cost of doing business, small market and population makes the Pacific less attractive for international investment and global digital platforms to operate.

Mr Shaheen Ali, Permanent Secretary for the Ministry of Trade, Cooperatives, Small and Medium Enterprises highlighted that

due to the abovementioned challenges, the Pacific could be left behind, “The digital divide between developed and developing countries is significant and is widening. It is critical that we work together to bridge this gap”.

Despite the challenges, digital technologies have much to offer the region.

“In Pacific countries, digital platforms can provide opportunities to expand access to local, regional and international markets,’’ said Neha Mehta, Pacific regional lead for the UN Capital Development Fund (UNCDF) in Fiji.

“This is especially important for women, youth and other marginalized groups. UNCDF is committed to ensuring inclusive digital economies that leave no one behind, and this report will support those efforts.” The report recommends actions that policymakers should take to address the challenges in the region and to place inclusion at the centre of digital

development.

It says Pacific nations need to adapt policies and regulations to the digital age. Trade agreements and consumer protection laws, for example, rarely consider complexities associated with doing business online. Yet, the digital economy is about more than that, it’s about human and people development as well as connectivity and technology.

Mr. Sujiro Seam, Ambassador and Head of the Delegation of the European Union for the Pacificremarked, “In the Blue Pacific Continent 2050 Strategy the Pacific has priorities such as resources and economic development, peoples centered development, connectivity and technology- the digital economy speaks to all of these priorities and, as you know, the digital revolution is also at the heart of the European Union.”

Statement by Forum Chair, Cook Islands Prime Minister Hon.

Mark Brown, on Vanuatu cyclones, earthquake

Forum Secretariat

March 6th, 2023

The latest cyclones which have ravaged Vanuatu, as well as an earthquake, in the four days from March 1-4th, should drive home the vulnerability and the responsibility we all bear for the global climate crisis and its impact on small island developing states.

Our hearts go out to those in Vanuatu who are now homeless, those hurting, those displaced, those hungry and the many anxiously awaiting news or assistance.

As emergency workers and officials continue assessments and rapid response work to the worst-affected provinces of Shefa, Penama, and Malapa, and as work continues to restore basic infrastructure needs, including power, safe water, and the airport, we stand in solidarity with Vanuatu.

We extend to Prime Minister Ishmael Kalsakau, his government and his people our prayers of strength, fortitude, and unity as they continue to work around the clock, with the support of international partners, to deliver quick responses to the most affected communities.

We commend development partners

UNICEF is concerned for thousands of children in outer islands following Vanuatu twin cyclones

UNICEF

including Australia, New Zealand, UN agencies and others already working closely with the Government of Vanuatu to deliver quick responses to those most affected and assist with the reporting and initial assessment of damages. We know that the ongoing anxiety and trauma caused to hundreds of families during these intensifying events is also an emerging priority.

We acknowledge the mammoth undertaking, post-disasters to refocus efforts to recover, restore and rebuild. In the coming days, as more information becomes known, we the Pacific Islands Forum stand ready to continue to assist with the recovery and rebuilding efforts as and when possible.

Indeed, these recent events have reaffirmed again the necessity of our efforts, as a region, to continually drive climate justice for the most vulnerable states, including through initiatives such as the International Court of Justice Advisory Opinion on Climate Change

To our brothers and sisters in Vanuatu, your Forum family stands in solidarity with you. We uphold you in prayers of safety, support, and recovery. You will overcome. You will build back, with resilience and strength.

God Bless the people of Vanuatu.

Nearly half of the country’s children are impacted by the severe weather events Suva, 6 March 2023 – Days after twin cyclones tore through the country, the situation for an estimated 58,000 children in Vanuatu remains extremely precarious. Children in the worst affected provinces of Tafea and Shefa in particular, need urgent help to recover. Many have lost their homes, schools, neighbourhoods and all things familiar in their lives.

“With power still out in many places, and boats and planes grounded or damaged by the cyclones, we still don’t have enough information on the impact of children in the outer islands of Tafea,” says UNICEF Pacific Representative Jonathan Veitch. “We know that schools and health centres have been damaged throughout the country, and UNICEF Pacific, in partnership with the Government, has begun to support the children and families most affected.”

On 5th March, UNICEF and the Vanuatu Red Cross delivered the first batch of humanitarian supplies to 450 people in the evacuation centre in Wan Smolbag in Shefa Province. Over the coming days, 1,000 families will receive these emergency supplies, which include

dignity kits, buckets and tarpaulins. The UNICEF warehouse in Port Vila was fully stocked with emergency supplies in preparation for cyclone season, and more are already on their way from Fiji. UNICEF has 17 staff already on the ground in Vanuatu, supporting the Government with needs assessments and immediate response. Based on initial assessment with partners, immediate needs include water and sanitation, health services, non-food items and emergency shelter.

The government has confirmed that 100 per cent of the country’s population of 300,000 have experienced the strong winds, with 200,000 of them in need of immediate support. Now that the second cyclone has passed through the country, the authorities are conducting rapid assessments to determine the exact needs. Based on previous experience in Vanuatu, relief items needed will include water, sanitation and hygiene (WASH) kits, primary healthcare including first aid, and female hygiene kits. In the short term water systems will need to be checked and restored and schools reopened wherever possible. Psychosocial support and other child protection services need to be established as quickly as possible to allow children to return to a sense of normalcy.

On 5th March, UNICEF and the Vanuatu Red Cross delivered the first batch of humanitarian supplies to 450 people in the evacuation centre in Wan Smolbag in Shefa Province. Over the coming days, 1,000 families will receive these emergency supplies, which include dignity kits, buckets and tarpaulins.

Tropical cyclones Kevin and Judy have left a trail of destruction across the country, with schools, houses and health facilities destroyed or severely damaged. Urgent humanitarian assistance continues to reach cyclone-affected families in Vanuatu.

Statement: Pacific Islands Forum Secretary General Henry Puna

International Women’s Day, 8 March 2023

Forum Secretariat

This International Women’s Day, 8 March as we reflect on the global 2023 theme, it is important for all nations to ensure a digital world for all, a world where innovation and technology are harnessed to advance Gender Equality.

Friends, I join you from the United Nations 5th conference on the Least Developed Countries. It is an important space to reflect on the journey of the most disadvantaged and vulnerable developing nations of the world, and the most vulnerable of the communities who live in them.

Today, as we take a moment to reflect on the support required for those living in these realities, I am reminded of the report cards from our Pacific world where we bear the weight of high levels of gender-based violence, and low levels of participation of women in political leadership and decision making. This is a sobering reality.

With this in mind, the Forum team continues to strive for the gender equality we require to ensure a region of peace, harmony, and development for all.

We continue to witness and support opportunities and solutions for women

accessing global markets through e-commerce and online trade, furthering education and employment prospects. We continue to champion a world where Pacific women and girls with disabilities have increased opportunities for access and inclusion. We have seen the power of their voice and solidarity on the issues that will progress our Blue Pacific continent.

But as we know, within the digital world, the issues of gendered inequality and discrimination borne by half our Pacific population, persist.

Ending the scourge of gender discrimination, inequality and violence is not just a principle of many of our founding laws and policies, nor is it exclusively an issue which affects only half our populations. Let me say this again: the cost of inequality impacts us all, and ensuring digital access for all, can only benefit us all.

When women and girls are encouraged to study science, tech, engineering or maths. When they are provided the opportunity to thrive in places of education and employment.

When they can rely on supportive work environments outside of the home. When those women and girls active in the public or political space, can be safe from the crimes of online abuse, threats,

misogyny and hate.

When online narratives and conversations ring true with inclusive voices of diversity. This is the moment when I will truly celebrate progress for a digital future for all.

This is why International Women’s Day is a day to celebrate success and achievement, but importantly, it must always be an opportunity to deliver solutions to address what still needs to be done.

And where we must do better.

At the Secretariat, this March 8th, we are celebrating and honouring 8 of our longest serving women in the organisation—in their respective careers and across a range of roles, these women have witnessed and been part of the digital transformation of the Pacific Islands Forum Secretariat.

Honouring their journeys with us will provide a moment of reflection and learning on the new pathways that are possible in our digital Pacific.

We are also embarking on an implementation plan for our Pacific 2050 strategy for the Blue Pacific which is inclusive, consultative, and will embrace the digital innovation necessary to keep our communities informed and engaged on this regional policy mandate for the

next three decades.

Later this year, our Pacific Forum Leaders will bring renewed focus on a major Declaration for Gender Equality. The consultations on the revitalised Declaration, currently underway, have highlighted the growing importance of technology and innovation in our region; ensuring that access and safety are paramount to support the progress of not only women and girls, but all Pacific communities.

These commitments require resourcing and action, and they work only when they move from policy to purpose-driven impact.

I know that you will join me securing a safe, peaceful and thriving Pacific future for all—in all spaces, including the digital realm.

For a future where women and girls can be safe from online abuse and exploitation. Where their access to training in science, tech, engineering, and maths, will also power their aspirations as Pacific people bringing balance to areas requiring urgent attention, and shaping new spaces of equal representation.

This access can only drive our journey as a Blue Pacific to the future that we all deserve.

Statement by Pacific Islands Forum Chair the Honourable Mark Brown, Prime

Minister of the Cook Island on the New International Treaty for the High Seas

March 7, 2023

Rarotonga, Cook Islands – I welcome the conclusion of the negotiations on the key substantive issues that will frame a new International Treaty on the conservation and sustainable use of marine biodiversity in the high seas. The finalization of the BBNJ instrument is a significant step in the right direction for all humankind. As Chair of the Pacific Islands Forum, I call for the adoption and ratification of this important agreement to be fast tracked. We support the United Nations’ vision to lay the foundation for a rapid, effective and equitable implementation.

Our Pacific people are the custodians of the largest Ocean on this earth and the health of our Ocean remains a key

priority for our region and our Forum Family.

Nearly two thirds of the ocean lies outside national boundaries on the high seas, where fragmented and unevenly enforced rules fail to safeguard high seas marine biodiversity for the benefit of present and future generations.

Once adopted, this treaty closes a legal vacuum that has existed for too long, on the effective governance of biodiversity in areas beyond national jurisdiction.

The BBNJ instrument exerts a level of accountability and certainty on the conservation and sustainable use of biological diversity beyond national jurisdiction that is linked to a monetary and non-monetary benefit-sharing

regime.

When this treaty enters into force, we as ocean states, will be further empowered to sustainably and equitably manage and protect the high seas and its resources. We look forward to collaboratively making the overexploitation of marine resources a thing of the past as we actively create protected areas in the high seas with the

aim to conserve 30 percent of the ocean by 2030.

With the final adoption of the treaty text to come, I encourage all Members’ to carefully plan the next steps that lay ahead, as the real work has only just begun.

Finally, and most importantly, I congratulate our Pacific negotiators for ensuring a successful conclusion to this process. As people of the ocean, our Governments’ have continued to demonstrate leadership when it comes to the ocean and international law. I look forward to working with Forum Leaders to see this process through to adoption in the near future.–

Forum Secretariat

FIJI NATIONAL STATEMENT

On the occasion of the sixty-seventh session of the Commission on the Status of Women delivered by Hon. Lynda Tabuya, Minister for Women, Children and Poverty Alleviation of the Republic of Fiji

Madam Chair, Excellencies and Distinguished guests,

I am honoured to participate in and address the sixty-seven session of the Commission on the Status of Women.

I shall begin to confirm that Fiji aligns with the statement that delivered on behalf of the Pacific Island Forum member states.

I here reaffirm too Fiji’s strong commitment to the Beijing Declaration and Platform for Action, the Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination against Women, the Paris Agreement on climate change, the Sendai Framework for Disaster Risk Reduction, 5-year enhanced Lima work programme on gender and its gender action plan, UN Security Council resolution 1325 and subsequent resolutions relating to women, peace and security, and our hold for the Sustainable Development Goals and 2030 Agenda.

Madam Chair, the COVID-19 pandemic has demonstrated the fragility of our world. And today we still collectively confront its devastating social and economic impact. This is at the same time that the nature is striking back with ferocity whereas the climate crisis becoming the defining crisis of our time.

Climate change crisis is a harsh reality that Fiji and the Blue Pacific are experiencing every day. Rising sea levels, ocean acidification, and more frequent and severe cyclones, and changes in rainfall patterns are affecting our daily lives, economies, our infrastructure, and social and cultural fabrics of our communities. And the truth is we are not all equal in the face of it. Gender discriminatory social norms and stereotypes, gender-based violence, and limited decision-making power, digital divide, burden of domestic work and unpaid care, as well as unequal access to resources and services - further exacerbate our women and girls’ resilience and vulnerability.

Fiji recognises that in the face of these intertwined and complex challenges, it is more critical than ever to leverage technology and innovation but acknowledging that no technological fixes can address the underlying structural problems and root causes that drive inequality and violation of women’s rights in our society.

Fiji is forthright too that while digital technology and innovation can create new possibilities for climate change mitigation and adaptation, it also can expand the carbon footprint of the ICT sector. While digital technology and innovation has the potential to advance gender equality, it also poses risks such as online gender-based violence and gender bias in algorithms and artificial intelligence. Fiji therefore support the development and use of technology and innovation in a way that is climate sustainable with commitment to the path with net-zero carbon emission and moreover responsive to the needs and perspectives of women and girls in all diversity.

Madam Chair, 71% of Fijians are connected to the Internet. 80% of Fijian women own a phone and, of them, three quarters own a smart phone. 71% of women access the Internet at least once per week. 75% of women own a bank account; while only 11% of Fijians with bank accounts use Internet banking, of them, 60% are women, and nearly one in five women uses mobile money accounts, with 62% using them regularly.

Fijian women are leveraging digital connectivity to advocate for social change and inclusion, receiving timely information about impending disasters while also exploring and utilising it to expand their businesses, save time and overcome constraints in accessing information that supports their economic and income-generating activities.

Fiji is rapidly positioning itself in emerging fields such as global outsourcing services (GOS), blue, green and circular economies where women have the potential to excel. At present, the GOS workforce estimated at 5,000 people, 90% are under the age of 35 years and 70% are women. The level of employment is projected to increase by 15,000 by 2026, with a similar proportion of women employees. The initiatives in Fiji to recruit and train rural women to manufacture; market and maintain energyefficient cook stoves and solar panels are examples of the green-job.

Fiji acknowledges that there are still challenges that must be addressed to ensure that all women and girls are able to fully participate and benefit from digital and technological advancements. The burden of unpaid care work and plague of gender-based violence pose significant risks to us. Fijian girls and young women need to be equipped with the knowledge and skills in STEM

fields to prepare them for the jobs of the future. The access and capacity of women in Fiji's rural and remote areas to leverage mobile technologies to benefit their agricultural and non-agricultural economic activities have yet to be fully explored.

Madam Chair and distinguished delegates; moving forward, we must ensure that technology works for all women and girls, and not against them. We must prioritize their safety, security, and dignity in all our efforts to harness the potential of technology for social and economic development. We must ensure that women and girls in all diversity have the skills and knowledge to use

digital tools effectively and safely. Fiji reaffirms its strong commitment. We will continue to work towards a sustainable, inclusive, and genderequal future, where technology is harnessed for the benefit of all.

I thank you!

United Nations Commission on the Status of Women (67th

Session)

General Discussion New Zealand Statement delivered by Minister for Women, Education, and Child Poverty Reduction, Hon Jan Tinetti

Tēnā koutou katoa [I acknowledge and greet you all]

Excellencies, and distinguished guests. Chair, I am honoured to speak to you today at the sixty-seventh session of the Commission on the Status of Women. Aotearoa New Zealand aligns with the statements delivered on behalf of the Pacific Islands Forum member states, the Group of Friends for the Elimination of Violence Against Women and Girls; and the LGBTI Core Group.

I would like to begin by acknowledging the intersecting crises impacting the rights of women and girls around the world. Armed conflicts, widespread violence, climate change and disasters are leading to egregious human rights violations which exacerbate existing gender norms and inequalities.

Technological change allows us to connect and coordinate global efforts towards gender equality. However, many social and gender norms and inequalities have been entrenched in technology and in the tech and innovation industry. Women, girls, and gender diverse people still experience disproportionate harm and marginalisation, and research increasingly documents the correlation between online and offline violence.

This is especially felt by those who experience multiple and intersecting forms of discrimination such as indigenous, disabled, LGBTQIA+, Asian, and ethnic and religious minority women and girls. Global efforts to eliminate gender-based violence and discrimination must focus on the rising misogyny and misinformation expressed online. Improving online safety will also improve women and girls’ ability to fully participate in political and public facing roles.

We are working domestically and internationally to ensure collective action and the enhancement of human rights protection online. Last year, we were pleased to join the Global Partnership for Action on Gender-Based Online

Harassment and Abuse. We are also proud co-leaders of the Christchurch Call and thank you for your crucial support in eliminating terrorist and violent extremist content shared online.

Education is key to harnessing innovation and technology for gender equality. New Zealand’s Curriculum refresh will include skills to challenge mis- and dis-information and add digital safety to relationships and sexuality education guidance. The Harmful Digital Communications Act was amended to specifically prohibit the unauthorised posting and sharing of intimate visual recordings.

To share the benefits of technology equitably, there must be seats at the table for women and girls in all their diversity, and the appropriate tools and funding to access them. Women receive 80% of the tech funding of their male counterparts and this investment gap is not unique to Aotearoa New Zealand. Governments, civil society, and the private sector must collaborate to prioritise the representation, upskilling and retention of women and girls in STEM.

Our Digital Technologies Industry Transformation Plan will target women and girls and the Lifting Connectivity for Aotearoa strategy focuses on rural settings, directly benefitting rural women. Closing the gender digital divide must prioritise the wellbeing, knowledge and selfdetermination of indigenous women and girls, and their families. We have an all-ofgovernment work programme to protect Māori knowledge in the intellectual property system, and the “Toloa” programme provides lifelong support to Pacific learners pursuing STEAM pathways.

We must be gender-transformative in our approaches to these challenges. Ensuring that technology, innovation and the online world is built, and rebuilt, with women and girls at the centre, will deliver a more equitable and gender equal future for all.

Ngā mihi nui. Thank you.