Senate asks U.S. to consider Angaur as Futenma relocation site
Wednesday, April 28 2010 15:19
By Bernadette H. Carreon
Palau Horizon
KOROR (Palau Horizon) – The Senate has adopted a resolution asking President Johnson Toribiong to offer the State of Angaur as an alternative location for the United States’ Airbase following plans to relocate the Futenma Airbase from Okinawa, Japan.
Resolution 8-53 stated that Angaur State can be utilized for the “United States military, strategic planning for the relocation of the Futenma Airbase from Okinawa, Japan.”
Resolution 8-53 requests President Johnson Toribiong to discuss with the government of the United States, through diplomatic channels the plan.
The resolution said that under the Compact of Free Association, U.S. has the right options to use lands in Palau for military defense.
The resolution cited that on the April 13-15, 2010 issue of the Palau Horizon, two members of the Japanese Diet; namely, the Honorable Takamine Zenshin and Tinian-born Representative Teruya Kantoku, expressed strong desire for the Island of Tinian in the Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands as a likely site to relocate Futenma Airbase from Okinawa, Japan.
The senators said historically Angaur has been used as a military support by the U.S. during World War II.
The resolution stated that a nearly 10,000 feet runway was constructed on Angaur Island from September 17-30, 1944 following a six-day, non-stop bombardment by USS Tennessee and landing on Angaur of the US 81st Infantry Division under the Command of Major General Paul J. Muller and from this newly constructed airfield US military aircrafts flew over to and bombed the Island of Peleliu and that said Angaur airfield provided much needed support for the invasion and the eventual US victory of the Battle of Peleliu.
It added, several years later said Angaur Airfield was put to civilian use as interim airport for commercial airplanes to land throughout the time Airai International Airport was under construction for resurfacing and extension of the runways.
Under Title III, Article II – Defense Sites and Operating Rights – in Section 321 of the Compact of Free Association “allows the United States to establish and use defense sites in Palau, and may designate land and water areas and improvements in accordance with terms and conditions set forth in a separate subsidiary agreement known as the Military Use and Operating Rights Agreement.”
Japan wanted the airbase out of Okinawa.
Showing posts with label Micronesia. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Micronesia. Show all posts
Saturday, May 01, 2010
Saturday, January 30, 2010
PNC :: Well Known Environmentalist to Address Climate Change Impact On Guam
PNC :: Well Known Environmentalist to Address Climate Change Impact On Guam
Tuesday, 26 January 2010
Guam - Jose Ma. Lorenzo “Lory” Tan, CEO and Vice Chairman of WWF-Philippines (World Wildlife Fund), will discuss the impacts of climate change on Guam and Micronesia. At the invitation of Sen. James Espaldon, Mr. Tan will be a
1. UOG guest lecturer on Thursday, Jan. 28 at 6 PM in the Jesus and Eugenia Leon Guerrero CBPA Building,
2. Guam Visitors Bureau Membership Luncheon guest speaker on Friday, Jan. 29 at 11:30 AM, Pacific Islands Club, and
3. Father Duenas Memorial School speaker to 9th and 10th graders.
“Mr. Tan delivered a powerful presentation on climate change and its impacts on tourism during an eco-tourism conference I attended in Manila. Visualizing the disaster that would affect many Asian destinations, I felt it was important to bring Lory on island to give a similar presentation that focuses on Guam and Micronesia,” said Senator Espaldon. Mr. Tan examines how Guam and the region will be affected by climate change, its impact on low lying areas as well as potential impacts to consider with the Guam build-up.
“I inquired during a DEIS briefing whether the impacts of climate change was considered in the military’s planning stages and the answer was no. It is alarming that we are investing billions to meet the military’s growth demands but did not even consider the repercussions of global warming and the potential of seeing hundreds of millions of dollars of infrastructure improvements go underwater in the future,” said Espaldon. It was because of this that Espaldon invited Tan to Guam. Espaldon added, “Global warming and the rising water levels are already affecting Guam and parts of Micronesia.”
Please see the attached biography for more information on Mr. Tan. For additional details on Mr. Tan’s visit, please contact Senator Espaldon at 475-5437.
Written by : News Release
Tuesday, 26 January 2010
Guam - Jose Ma. Lorenzo “Lory” Tan, CEO and Vice Chairman of WWF-Philippines (World Wildlife Fund), will discuss the impacts of climate change on Guam and Micronesia. At the invitation of Sen. James Espaldon, Mr. Tan will be a
1. UOG guest lecturer on Thursday, Jan. 28 at 6 PM in the Jesus and Eugenia Leon Guerrero CBPA Building,
2. Guam Visitors Bureau Membership Luncheon guest speaker on Friday, Jan. 29 at 11:30 AM, Pacific Islands Club, and
3. Father Duenas Memorial School speaker to 9th and 10th graders.
“Mr. Tan delivered a powerful presentation on climate change and its impacts on tourism during an eco-tourism conference I attended in Manila. Visualizing the disaster that would affect many Asian destinations, I felt it was important to bring Lory on island to give a similar presentation that focuses on Guam and Micronesia,” said Senator Espaldon. Mr. Tan examines how Guam and the region will be affected by climate change, its impact on low lying areas as well as potential impacts to consider with the Guam build-up.
“I inquired during a DEIS briefing whether the impacts of climate change was considered in the military’s planning stages and the answer was no. It is alarming that we are investing billions to meet the military’s growth demands but did not even consider the repercussions of global warming and the potential of seeing hundreds of millions of dollars of infrastructure improvements go underwater in the future,” said Espaldon. It was because of this that Espaldon invited Tan to Guam. Espaldon added, “Global warming and the rising water levels are already affecting Guam and parts of Micronesia.”
Please see the attached biography for more information on Mr. Tan. For additional details on Mr. Tan’s visit, please contact Senator Espaldon at 475-5437.
Written by : News Release
Tuesday, December 22, 2009
MCT tackles military buildup mitigation plans
MCT tackles military buildup mitigation plans
Wednesday, 23 December 2009 04:25 Varitey News Staff
(MCT)--The Micronesia Conservation Trust Board of Trustees hosted a breakfast yesterday to discuss the trust’s work in Micronesia and inform key stakeholders about environmental mitigation proposals to help protect and restore Guam’s natural resources from impacts associated with the military buildup.
The trust, or MCT, is a not-for-profit corporation established to support biodiversity conservation by providing grants and capacity building/training support to local organizations and communities across the Micronesia region including Guam, the CNMI, Federated States of Micronesia, Palau and Marshall Islands.
On Guam, MCT is working with the Guam Governor’s Office, the Natural Resource Subcommittee, the Army Corps of Engineers and other relevant federal agencies to apply as an In Lieu Fee Program Sponsor in support of some of the projects that will be required to mitigate impacts associated with the military build-up in Guam.
MCT Board members and partner agencies met with members of the legislature to discuss the proposal and what it will mean for the island.
Senators expressed several concerns about the buildup and highlighted issues for further discussion or legislation, including a mechanism to make local school groups and non-profit organizations eligible for additional funding for projects.
“I am pleased so many Senators showed an interest in the ILF program and look forward to more discussions as Guam and MCT continue working on mitigation issues,” said William Kostka, MCT executive director.
MCT plans to submit their ILF application to the Army Corps of Engineers in early February. If approved, the program could mean millions of dollars to support natural resource conservation projects in Guam as the buildup progresses and beyond.
Wednesday, 23 December 2009 04:25 Varitey News Staff
(MCT)--The Micronesia Conservation Trust Board of Trustees hosted a breakfast yesterday to discuss the trust’s work in Micronesia and inform key stakeholders about environmental mitigation proposals to help protect and restore Guam’s natural resources from impacts associated with the military buildup.
The trust, or MCT, is a not-for-profit corporation established to support biodiversity conservation by providing grants and capacity building/training support to local organizations and communities across the Micronesia region including Guam, the CNMI, Federated States of Micronesia, Palau and Marshall Islands.
On Guam, MCT is working with the Guam Governor’s Office, the Natural Resource Subcommittee, the Army Corps of Engineers and other relevant federal agencies to apply as an In Lieu Fee Program Sponsor in support of some of the projects that will be required to mitigate impacts associated with the military build-up in Guam.
MCT Board members and partner agencies met with members of the legislature to discuss the proposal and what it will mean for the island.
Senators expressed several concerns about the buildup and highlighted issues for further discussion or legislation, including a mechanism to make local school groups and non-profit organizations eligible for additional funding for projects.
“I am pleased so many Senators showed an interest in the ILF program and look forward to more discussions as Guam and MCT continue working on mitigation issues,” said William Kostka, MCT executive director.
MCT plans to submit their ILF application to the Army Corps of Engineers in early February. If approved, the program could mean millions of dollars to support natural resource conservation projects in Guam as the buildup progresses and beyond.
Wednesday, December 09, 2009
Regional leaders seek to stop spread of invasive species
Regional leaders seek to stop spread of invasive species
Thursday, 10 December 2009 04:38 by Zita Y. Taitano | Variety News Staff
THE governors of Guam and the CNMI, as well as the presidents of the Federated States of Micronesia, Palau and Marshall Islands have signed a joint communiqué agreeing to initiate programs to ensure that islands in the region will be able to handle the possible influx of invasive species resulting from increased entry of military cargo.
The communiqué was signed during the 12th Micronesia Chief Executives Summit concluded last week. It includes an update by the nine members of the Micronesia Regional Invasive Species Council.
During the summit, the council addressed everything from funding issues, ongoing efforts that would prevent the expansion of the brown tree snake, as well as the development of the Micronesia Biosecurity Plan.
In a letter to Defense Secretary Robert Gates, island leaders expressed their concern regarding invasive species especially with the military buildup and strongly requested that DOD along with its fellow U.S. department and agencies begin proactive measures that would prevent any new invasive species from entering the shores of the islands here in the region.
They also expressed their appreciation for the $2.7 million federal funding for the development of the plan.
The chief executives made some recommendations regarding the plan such as identifying who will head the council and designating two representatives to the council from each state and national jurisdiction by the end of this year.
The council must also reaffirm their commitment and hold two workshop style meetings each year between the summits. During those meetings, the council will discuss invasive issues and what actions can be taken or will be prioritized. A minimum of $2,500 from each jurisdiction would be committed to the council to fund its priority projects.
The council must also reaffirm their commitment and provide a full-time invasive species coordinator for each jurisdiction.
Guam has already taken a step in combating invasive species. Last month, the Inter-agency Bio-Security Task Force was formed at the governor’s office in Adelup.
The task force is comprised of the Guam Department of Agriculture, Guam Customs and Quarantine Agency and the U.S. Department of Agriculture Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service. Its primary goal is provide information and updates on what and how invasive species can be eradicated from Guam.
The task force also has currently in training three canines who will be able to detect any type of invasive species in construction materials or items coming into the island before those items head out to the rest of Micronesia.
Thursday, 10 December 2009 04:38 by Zita Y. Taitano | Variety News Staff
THE governors of Guam and the CNMI, as well as the presidents of the Federated States of Micronesia, Palau and Marshall Islands have signed a joint communiqué agreeing to initiate programs to ensure that islands in the region will be able to handle the possible influx of invasive species resulting from increased entry of military cargo.
The communiqué was signed during the 12th Micronesia Chief Executives Summit concluded last week. It includes an update by the nine members of the Micronesia Regional Invasive Species Council.
During the summit, the council addressed everything from funding issues, ongoing efforts that would prevent the expansion of the brown tree snake, as well as the development of the Micronesia Biosecurity Plan.
In a letter to Defense Secretary Robert Gates, island leaders expressed their concern regarding invasive species especially with the military buildup and strongly requested that DOD along with its fellow U.S. department and agencies begin proactive measures that would prevent any new invasive species from entering the shores of the islands here in the region.
They also expressed their appreciation for the $2.7 million federal funding for the development of the plan.
The chief executives made some recommendations regarding the plan such as identifying who will head the council and designating two representatives to the council from each state and national jurisdiction by the end of this year.
The council must also reaffirm their commitment and hold two workshop style meetings each year between the summits. During those meetings, the council will discuss invasive issues and what actions can be taken or will be prioritized. A minimum of $2,500 from each jurisdiction would be committed to the council to fund its priority projects.
The council must also reaffirm their commitment and provide a full-time invasive species coordinator for each jurisdiction.
Guam has already taken a step in combating invasive species. Last month, the Inter-agency Bio-Security Task Force was formed at the governor’s office in Adelup.
The task force is comprised of the Guam Department of Agriculture, Guam Customs and Quarantine Agency and the U.S. Department of Agriculture Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service. Its primary goal is provide information and updates on what and how invasive species can be eradicated from Guam.
The task force also has currently in training three canines who will be able to detect any type of invasive species in construction materials or items coming into the island before those items head out to the rest of Micronesia.
Friday, December 04, 2009
Micronesian leaders talk collaboration
Micronesian leaders talk collaboration
By Amritha Alladi • Pacific Daily News • December 4, 2009
Micronesia's leaders discussed ways to streamline federal resources to help boost the region's sustainability, tourism, energy efficiency and work-force development on the first day of the 12th Micronesian Chief Executives' Summit yesterday.
"The initiatives that come out of this are ones that we can implement within our own respective communities, and then also collectively at the region," said Gov. Felix Camacho. "So the key is -- as Micronesian leaders -- how can we come together to collaborate and do things on a regional basis that would benefit all of our people?"
He said one initiative that already has proven successful is the biosecurity plan, through which the local governments, along with the U.S. Department of Defense, work together to protect each of the islands' environments from invasive species or any other hazards that may pose a threat as a result of transporting cargo between the islands.
Additionally, the "Micronesian Challenge" initiative has designated 20 to 30 percent of each jurisdiction's land and ocean resources to be preserved through 2020, he said. The joint plan will present almost $27 million more in funding opportunities for the region.
To promote the region's tourism, Camacho said, the leaders are considering how to bring in other airlines and get more seat capacity. There's also a plan to start cruise lines in Micronesia as an alternative to those in the Caribbean or in Europe.
Ideally, the leaders want to create a tour of Micronesia for tourists from Asia to visit each of the islands, Camacho said. The military buildup will also present more opportunities for growth, he said.
"With more military personnel here they can do R&R and visit throughout Micronesia as they have breaks," Camacho said.
On energy, Camacho said it makes sense for the other islands to join the energy initiatives to pool resources, either in the form of federal funding or in the form of bringing trainers to Micronesia or attracting investors.
Lorilee Crisostomo, administrator of the Guam Environmental Protection Agency, highlighted the steps that have been taken by the islands to establish energy efficiency.
For example, Guam received more than $29 million through federal stimulus funding to retrofit low-income housing, public buildings, parks and highways, as well as install LED lights on highway and provide scholarships for engineers, she said.
About $166,000 in cash was given back to consumers who turned in their old appliances to be properly disposed, she said.
In the Federated States of Micronesia, officials enacted a plan in which they have connected photovoltaic grid systems in Kosrae, the outer islands of Chuuk and Yap, "making these islands the first 100 percent renewable islands in the Pacific," she said.
Work-force development
Recommendations for work-force development were presented to the chief executives by Guam Department of Labor Director Maria Connelley.
Connelley said the two initiatives that have continued to attract interest are:
# An initiative to implement more programs for veterans and people with disabilities, and
# Another initiative to start master-apprenticeship programs in the local arts, such as training young people to become master weavers, carvers and artisans, she said.
There is no challenge in acquiring federal funds for work-force development because Guam has been responsive, transparent and accountable in the way the funds are used, Connelley said.
"Even if we have to go to the national level or even if we have to change the law or create the law, that's not difficult," Connelley said. "You just have to get with the right people to do it."
By Amritha Alladi • Pacific Daily News • December 4, 2009
Micronesia's leaders discussed ways to streamline federal resources to help boost the region's sustainability, tourism, energy efficiency and work-force development on the first day of the 12th Micronesian Chief Executives' Summit yesterday.
"The initiatives that come out of this are ones that we can implement within our own respective communities, and then also collectively at the region," said Gov. Felix Camacho. "So the key is -- as Micronesian leaders -- how can we come together to collaborate and do things on a regional basis that would benefit all of our people?"
He said one initiative that already has proven successful is the biosecurity plan, through which the local governments, along with the U.S. Department of Defense, work together to protect each of the islands' environments from invasive species or any other hazards that may pose a threat as a result of transporting cargo between the islands.
Additionally, the "Micronesian Challenge" initiative has designated 20 to 30 percent of each jurisdiction's land and ocean resources to be preserved through 2020, he said. The joint plan will present almost $27 million more in funding opportunities for the region.
To promote the region's tourism, Camacho said, the leaders are considering how to bring in other airlines and get more seat capacity. There's also a plan to start cruise lines in Micronesia as an alternative to those in the Caribbean or in Europe.
Ideally, the leaders want to create a tour of Micronesia for tourists from Asia to visit each of the islands, Camacho said. The military buildup will also present more opportunities for growth, he said.
"With more military personnel here they can do R&R and visit throughout Micronesia as they have breaks," Camacho said.
On energy, Camacho said it makes sense for the other islands to join the energy initiatives to pool resources, either in the form of federal funding or in the form of bringing trainers to Micronesia or attracting investors.
Lorilee Crisostomo, administrator of the Guam Environmental Protection Agency, highlighted the steps that have been taken by the islands to establish energy efficiency.
For example, Guam received more than $29 million through federal stimulus funding to retrofit low-income housing, public buildings, parks and highways, as well as install LED lights on highway and provide scholarships for engineers, she said.
About $166,000 in cash was given back to consumers who turned in their old appliances to be properly disposed, she said.
In the Federated States of Micronesia, officials enacted a plan in which they have connected photovoltaic grid systems in Kosrae, the outer islands of Chuuk and Yap, "making these islands the first 100 percent renewable islands in the Pacific," she said.
Work-force development
Recommendations for work-force development were presented to the chief executives by Guam Department of Labor Director Maria Connelley.
Connelley said the two initiatives that have continued to attract interest are:
# An initiative to implement more programs for veterans and people with disabilities, and
# Another initiative to start master-apprenticeship programs in the local arts, such as training young people to become master weavers, carvers and artisans, she said.
There is no challenge in acquiring federal funds for work-force development because Guam has been responsive, transparent and accountable in the way the funds are used, Connelley said.
"Even if we have to go to the national level or even if we have to change the law or create the law, that's not difficult," Connelley said. "You just have to get with the right people to do it."
Wednesday, December 02, 2009
Micronesia summit today
Micronesia summit today
Dionesis Tamondong • Pacific Daily News • December 3, 2009
Promoting regional tourism, conserving marine resources and discussing the impact of the upcoming military buildup to the entire Micronesia region are some of the topics on the agenda for 12th Micronesian Chief Executives' Summit.
The gathering of Micronesia's leaders takes place today and tomorrow at the Sheraton Laguna Guam Resort.
Since the Summit was established in 2004 by Guam Gov. Felix Camacho and Juan Babauta, who was governor of the Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands at the time, biannual meetings have been held to establish closer ties among the islands and promote initiatives beneficial to the entire western Micronesian region.
"As chief executives of the islands in our region, we recognize that maintenance of healthy ecosystems and sustainable resource management are critical to the livelihoods of Pacific people," Camacho said in a news release.
Renewable energy, invasive species and work-force development are among the topics on Summit's agenda today. Tomorrow, participants will get an update on the military buildup and its impact to the region from retired Marine Maj. Gen. David Bice, executive director of the Joint Guam Program Office, and Gary Kuwabara, Western Regional director for the Department of Defense Office of Economic Adjustment.
Camacho will be joined at the summit by:
# Kenneth Kedi, minister of Transportation and Communication for the Republic of the Marshall Islands, representing RMI President Jurelang Zedkaia;
# CNMI Gov. Benigno Fitial;
# Republic of Palau President Johnson Toribiong;
# Federated States of Micronesia President Emanuel Mori;
# Chuuk Gov. Wesley Simina;
# Yap Gov. Sebastian Anefal;
# Kosrae Gov. Robert Weilbacher; and
# Pohnpei Gov. John Ehsa.
Dionesis Tamondong • Pacific Daily News • December 3, 2009
Promoting regional tourism, conserving marine resources and discussing the impact of the upcoming military buildup to the entire Micronesia region are some of the topics on the agenda for 12th Micronesian Chief Executives' Summit.
The gathering of Micronesia's leaders takes place today and tomorrow at the Sheraton Laguna Guam Resort.
Since the Summit was established in 2004 by Guam Gov. Felix Camacho and Juan Babauta, who was governor of the Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands at the time, biannual meetings have been held to establish closer ties among the islands and promote initiatives beneficial to the entire western Micronesian region.
"As chief executives of the islands in our region, we recognize that maintenance of healthy ecosystems and sustainable resource management are critical to the livelihoods of Pacific people," Camacho said in a news release.
Renewable energy, invasive species and work-force development are among the topics on Summit's agenda today. Tomorrow, participants will get an update on the military buildup and its impact to the region from retired Marine Maj. Gen. David Bice, executive director of the Joint Guam Program Office, and Gary Kuwabara, Western Regional director for the Department of Defense Office of Economic Adjustment.
Camacho will be joined at the summit by:
# Kenneth Kedi, minister of Transportation and Communication for the Republic of the Marshall Islands, representing RMI President Jurelang Zedkaia;
# CNMI Gov. Benigno Fitial;
# Republic of Palau President Johnson Toribiong;
# Federated States of Micronesia President Emanuel Mori;
# Chuuk Gov. Wesley Simina;
# Yap Gov. Sebastian Anefal;
# Kosrae Gov. Robert Weilbacher; and
# Pohnpei Gov. John Ehsa.
Tuesday, October 27, 2009
FSM workers eyed for buildup
FSM workers eyed for buildup
Wednesday, 28 October 2009 00:42
by Therese Hart | Variety News Staff
AN HISTORIC strategic alliance agreement was signed yesterday afternoon between the Federated States of Micronesia President Emanuel Mori and Center for Micronesian Empowerment chairman Ansito Walter, a University of Guam professor and former governor of Chuuk state.
The alliance will facilitate the assimilation and integration of workers from Micronesia into Guam’s workforce with thousands of jobs that will become available over the military buildup period.
“We must make sure that employers look to the people of our region first and that our people are ready for that call. This alliance is extremely important because it will enable our young men and women to get the required training to give them the necessary skills to make them employable here in Guam and especially because of the military buildup,” said Mori.
CME is a non-governmental organization representing business, community leaders and government officials. Its purpose is to assess, assimilate, train and find employment for the residents of the region.
Mike Ghiglione, executive director of CME said the organization has established a working relationship with the Guam Contractors Association Trades Academy to make sure as many local and regional workers as possible are prepared for the jobs the military buildup will bring.
Mori said he anticipates recruiting approximately 5,000 young men and women interested in gaining valuable job skills not just for Guam, but also for work in Hawaii and the on the U.S. mainland.
The president said his people have migrated to these areas for lack of employment within FSM states.
Not all of the 5,000 potential recruits will come to Guam since many of them will be receiving training at the College of Micronesia in Pohnpei, currently gearing up for vocational training, said Mori.
After they’ve completed their training there, many are expected to travel to Guam and elsewhere to receive a higher level of training. On Guam, many will find this training at GCC and the Guam Contractors Association Trades Academy, said Mori.
The trades academy and GCC will be expanding its facilities to meet the growing demands of students who desire to obtain a trade in their schools.
In November, the launch of a landmark program will assist residents in the state of Kosrae to obtain training necessary to become productive members of Guam’s workforce.
The alliance agreement seeks to expand the program across all of Micronesia and hopes to attract a workforce from the region, as opposed to employing thousands of foreign workers.
This would allow Micronesia’s island nation states the opportunity to play a greater role in the military realignment and economic boom associated with the buildup.
“The services that CME provides are precisely what’s needed to allow the people of Micronesia to more fully participate in the military buildup. We intend to do all that we can to ensure that the employment needed for the buildup on Guam comes from the region we call Micronesia, within which Guam stands as our proud brother,” said the FSM president.
Tuition funding will come from various sources such as Department of Interior Funds as well as compact impact funds and federal financial aid programs provided at the trade schools.
Wednesday, 28 October 2009 00:42
by Therese Hart | Variety News Staff
AN HISTORIC strategic alliance agreement was signed yesterday afternoon between the Federated States of Micronesia President Emanuel Mori and Center for Micronesian Empowerment chairman Ansito Walter, a University of Guam professor and former governor of Chuuk state.
The alliance will facilitate the assimilation and integration of workers from Micronesia into Guam’s workforce with thousands of jobs that will become available over the military buildup period.
“We must make sure that employers look to the people of our region first and that our people are ready for that call. This alliance is extremely important because it will enable our young men and women to get the required training to give them the necessary skills to make them employable here in Guam and especially because of the military buildup,” said Mori.
CME is a non-governmental organization representing business, community leaders and government officials. Its purpose is to assess, assimilate, train and find employment for the residents of the region.
Mike Ghiglione, executive director of CME said the organization has established a working relationship with the Guam Contractors Association Trades Academy to make sure as many local and regional workers as possible are prepared for the jobs the military buildup will bring.
Mori said he anticipates recruiting approximately 5,000 young men and women interested in gaining valuable job skills not just for Guam, but also for work in Hawaii and the on the U.S. mainland.
The president said his people have migrated to these areas for lack of employment within FSM states.
Not all of the 5,000 potential recruits will come to Guam since many of them will be receiving training at the College of Micronesia in Pohnpei, currently gearing up for vocational training, said Mori.
After they’ve completed their training there, many are expected to travel to Guam and elsewhere to receive a higher level of training. On Guam, many will find this training at GCC and the Guam Contractors Association Trades Academy, said Mori.
The trades academy and GCC will be expanding its facilities to meet the growing demands of students who desire to obtain a trade in their schools.
In November, the launch of a landmark program will assist residents in the state of Kosrae to obtain training necessary to become productive members of Guam’s workforce.
The alliance agreement seeks to expand the program across all of Micronesia and hopes to attract a workforce from the region, as opposed to employing thousands of foreign workers.
This would allow Micronesia’s island nation states the opportunity to play a greater role in the military realignment and economic boom associated with the buildup.
“The services that CME provides are precisely what’s needed to allow the people of Micronesia to more fully participate in the military buildup. We intend to do all that we can to ensure that the employment needed for the buildup on Guam comes from the region we call Micronesia, within which Guam stands as our proud brother,” said the FSM president.
Tuition funding will come from various sources such as Department of Interior Funds as well as compact impact funds and federal financial aid programs provided at the trade schools.
Saturday, September 26, 2009
FSM President Mori Tells U.N. Micronesian Climate Change Threatens His Nation's Survival
FSM President Mori Tells U.N. Micronesian Climate Change Threatens His Nation's Survival
Pacific News Center
Kevin Kerrigan
Guam - In his address to the United Nations General Assembly Saturday, the President of the Federated States of Micronesia, Emanuel Mori, emphasized the critical danger Micronesia is facing from climate change.
With sea-levels rising, changing weather patterns and increased storms and disasters, he called for urgent and immediate action by the international community.
"There is simply no more time to waste," he said. "Talk is cheap, action speaks louder. Let's go to Copenhagen to 'seal the deal.'"
In a deeply personal appeal, Mori called climate change "a matter of survival, as a people, culture and as nations" for Micronesians and "our fellow Pacific islanders, including islanders in other parts of the World.
"For centuries, the people of Micronesia have lived on their small islands, many less than a meter above sea level. They have enjoyed a life dependent on the bounties of the sea and the harvest from the land. They have developed a culture of respect for nature and lived in harmony with their natural surroundings. They built outrigger canoes and rigged them with sails from pandanus leaves."
But that same ocean that has nurtured Micronesia for centuries has now become "the very instrument of our destruction," Mori said.
Mori also pointed out to the General Assembly that climate change is undermining Micronesia's development efforts, including its abilities to meet the Millennium Development Goals. Micronesia's overall fragility is compounded by climate change impacts such as increased droughts, excessive rainfall and saltwater intrusion into taro patches and other staple crops, he said. Yet he added that advances in development are being made, including Micronesia's continued work with its fellow Pacific governments on the Micronesia Challenge to conserve the area's biodiversity. Micronesia is also seeking to acquire a fiber-optic cable network that reaches the entire country, as the improved communications will improve its efforts on health, education and private sector development.
In addition to the speech's strong focus on climate change, Mori also stressed his concern over illegal and unsustainable fishing practices in the waters of coastal island nations, and he stated support for United Nations Security Council reform in the form of expansion in both permanent and non-permanent membership, with support for permanent seats for Japan, Germany and India.
Pacific News Center
Kevin Kerrigan
Guam - In his address to the United Nations General Assembly Saturday, the President of the Federated States of Micronesia, Emanuel Mori, emphasized the critical danger Micronesia is facing from climate change.
With sea-levels rising, changing weather patterns and increased storms and disasters, he called for urgent and immediate action by the international community.
"There is simply no more time to waste," he said. "Talk is cheap, action speaks louder. Let's go to Copenhagen to 'seal the deal.'"
In a deeply personal appeal, Mori called climate change "a matter of survival, as a people, culture and as nations" for Micronesians and "our fellow Pacific islanders, including islanders in other parts of the World.
"For centuries, the people of Micronesia have lived on their small islands, many less than a meter above sea level. They have enjoyed a life dependent on the bounties of the sea and the harvest from the land. They have developed a culture of respect for nature and lived in harmony with their natural surroundings. They built outrigger canoes and rigged them with sails from pandanus leaves."
But that same ocean that has nurtured Micronesia for centuries has now become "the very instrument of our destruction," Mori said.
Mori also pointed out to the General Assembly that climate change is undermining Micronesia's development efforts, including its abilities to meet the Millennium Development Goals. Micronesia's overall fragility is compounded by climate change impacts such as increased droughts, excessive rainfall and saltwater intrusion into taro patches and other staple crops, he said. Yet he added that advances in development are being made, including Micronesia's continued work with its fellow Pacific governments on the Micronesia Challenge to conserve the area's biodiversity. Micronesia is also seeking to acquire a fiber-optic cable network that reaches the entire country, as the improved communications will improve its efforts on health, education and private sector development.
In addition to the speech's strong focus on climate change, Mori also stressed his concern over illegal and unsustainable fishing practices in the waters of coastal island nations, and he stated support for United Nations Security Council reform in the form of expansion in both permanent and non-permanent membership, with support for permanent seats for Japan, Germany and India.
Tuesday, September 22, 2009
Anti-Bases Coalition Mulled
Anti-bases coalition mulled
Tuesday, 22 September 2009 00:00
By Zita Taitano
Marianas Variety News Staff
HAGÅTÑA — The 7th Meeting of the International Network of Women Against Militarism has concluded with a plan to form a regional coalition that will actively oppose the “militarization” of Micronesia.
Therese Terlaje, one of the resource speakers at the conference which ended Friday, said participants will gather all information and draft a solidarity statement explaining their position that the presence of the military is not conducive to the region.
Terlaje said the soon-to-be-formed coalition, which will be spearheaded by women activists from the Philippines, will include members from Guam, the CNMI, Palau, Japan, and Australia.
During Friday’s session, panelists and participants expressed concern about the Department of Navy’s memo that bans sex offenders from living within the military bases.
Terlaje said the issue was first brought up during a public education forum in 2008 by military planners. “They said we will no allow sexual offenders on the base even if they come from the military (or) as military dependents,” she said.
“They are not allowed to live on the base and that is how they pretty much left the problem and that means we have to figure out that if they’re outside the base obviously, that’s our problem. That’s all we know so far,” Terlaje said.
Also discussed last Friday was “human trafficking and prostitution.”
Annie Fukushima of the University of California at Berkeley told the stories of women promised a better life only to be tricked into becoming sex slaves.
Among them was a woman who claimed that a man she met told her she could come to the U.S. where she would be able to find work. The woman would end up in Hawaii and then a few months later on the U.S. mainland as a sex slave.
Sue Gilbey of Adelaide Australia touched on legal brothels in Australia, where sex workers are even unionized. Despite the legality of the flesh business, yet there have been reports of illegal human trafficking in Australia.
“One thing about these though is it provides a front like trafficking and it’s making it more difficult to identify [victims],” Gilbey said, noting that the organized crime is prevalent in South East Asia, eastern Europe Korea and India.
Tuesday, 22 September 2009 00:00
By Zita Taitano
Marianas Variety News Staff
HAGÅTÑA — The 7th Meeting of the International Network of Women Against Militarism has concluded with a plan to form a regional coalition that will actively oppose the “militarization” of Micronesia.
Therese Terlaje, one of the resource speakers at the conference which ended Friday, said participants will gather all information and draft a solidarity statement explaining their position that the presence of the military is not conducive to the region.
Terlaje said the soon-to-be-formed coalition, which will be spearheaded by women activists from the Philippines, will include members from Guam, the CNMI, Palau, Japan, and Australia.
During Friday’s session, panelists and participants expressed concern about the Department of Navy’s memo that bans sex offenders from living within the military bases.
Terlaje said the issue was first brought up during a public education forum in 2008 by military planners. “They said we will no allow sexual offenders on the base even if they come from the military (or) as military dependents,” she said.
“They are not allowed to live on the base and that is how they pretty much left the problem and that means we have to figure out that if they’re outside the base obviously, that’s our problem. That’s all we know so far,” Terlaje said.
Also discussed last Friday was “human trafficking and prostitution.”
Annie Fukushima of the University of California at Berkeley told the stories of women promised a better life only to be tricked into becoming sex slaves.
Among them was a woman who claimed that a man she met told her she could come to the U.S. where she would be able to find work. The woman would end up in Hawaii and then a few months later on the U.S. mainland as a sex slave.
Sue Gilbey of Adelaide Australia touched on legal brothels in Australia, where sex workers are even unionized. Despite the legality of the flesh business, yet there have been reports of illegal human trafficking in Australia.
“One thing about these though is it provides a front like trafficking and it’s making it more difficult to identify [victims],” Gilbey said, noting that the organized crime is prevalent in South East Asia, eastern Europe Korea and India.
Thursday, August 13, 2009
Blas Jr. Presents Compact Impact Petition to Congress
Blas, Jr. to Congress - Reimburse Guam
Top Stories
Written by Guam News Factor Staff Writer
Wednesday, 12 August 2009 11:32
GUAM - Senator Frank Blas, Jr. yesterday presented an historic petition signed by 7, 415 Guam residents to U.S. Congressman Nick J. Rahall, II, Chairman of the U.S. House Committee on Natural Resources.
The petition was presented at a working luncheon hosted by Guam Congresswoman Madeleine Bordallo for the visiting congressional delegation and island leaders.
The petition to Congress asks for the unreimbursed costs of services provided relative to the Compacts of Free Association. Senator Blas, along with Senator Tina Muna-Barnes organized the petition drive.
"The people of Guam are speaking loud and clear. ‘Reimburse our island for your mandates,'" Senator BIas said. "The amount of money the U.S. government owes Guam can almost fund the full operations of the local government for an entire year! It is a gross injustice Senator Barnes and I are fighting hard to correct."
Citizens from the Freely Associated States also are concerned about the federal government's failure to fulfill its obligations under the compacts. The lack of funding has created shortfalls in resources to provide the services all the people of Guam deserve and expect.
Many former FAS residents signed the petition, acknowledging the need for the U.S. government to abide by its fiduciary responsibilities.
The petition included signatures from former Governor Joseph Ada, former Lt. Governor Frank Blas, former Congressman Robert Underwood, Lt. Governor Michael W. Cruz, members of the Legislature and the Consul Generals of the Federated States of Micronesia and Palau.
The original petition was submitted to Congress via Congressman Rahall, who is leading a Congressional delegation on Guam. Electronic copies were provided to the other members of the delegation.
Top Stories
Written by Guam News Factor Staff Writer
Wednesday, 12 August 2009 11:32
GUAM - Senator Frank Blas, Jr. yesterday presented an historic petition signed by 7, 415 Guam residents to U.S. Congressman Nick J. Rahall, II, Chairman of the U.S. House Committee on Natural Resources.
The petition was presented at a working luncheon hosted by Guam Congresswoman Madeleine Bordallo for the visiting congressional delegation and island leaders.
The petition to Congress asks for the unreimbursed costs of services provided relative to the Compacts of Free Association. Senator Blas, along with Senator Tina Muna-Barnes organized the petition drive.
"The people of Guam are speaking loud and clear. ‘Reimburse our island for your mandates,'" Senator BIas said. "The amount of money the U.S. government owes Guam can almost fund the full operations of the local government for an entire year! It is a gross injustice Senator Barnes and I are fighting hard to correct."
Citizens from the Freely Associated States also are concerned about the federal government's failure to fulfill its obligations under the compacts. The lack of funding has created shortfalls in resources to provide the services all the people of Guam deserve and expect.
Many former FAS residents signed the petition, acknowledging the need for the U.S. government to abide by its fiduciary responsibilities.
The petition included signatures from former Governor Joseph Ada, former Lt. Governor Frank Blas, former Congressman Robert Underwood, Lt. Governor Michael W. Cruz, members of the Legislature and the Consul Generals of the Federated States of Micronesia and Palau.
The original petition was submitted to Congress via Congressman Rahall, who is leading a Congressional delegation on Guam. Electronic copies were provided to the other members of the delegation.
Monday, August 10, 2009
An Independent Guam
EGuam on its own
Monday, 10 August 2009 00:31 Letter to the Editor .
THIS is the picture of an independent Guam that I have in my mind. The United States keeps Anderson Air Force Base here simply as a military outpost in the Pacific and as our security. All other lands in military inventories are reverted to GovGuam, being distributed and used at our discretion.
American dollar remains to be our currency, like other independent Pacific nations that have this form of security and currency arrangement. With a stable government and currency comes investors’ confidence. All existing free enterprises continue. All jobs are retained. Mortgages and bills get paid. Now we invest in our selves.
We can take advantage of our proximity to the ocean. We can invest and develop the following initiatives:
A storage facility to accommodate fish harvests from the entire Micronesian region;
A fish cannery;
A transit point for distribution of Micronesian fish to the world;
A fueling and replenishment point for the fishing fleets. In addition to fueling, vessels can replenish supplies such as food, fishing inventory and labor.
Because of our proximity to Micronesia and Asia, these ideas are feasible and will stimulate the development of more businesses. Thousands of new jobs will be created and new monies will be infused into our economy. With new monies we will live better.
Our hospital, utilities, roads, trash and other services will be better maintained. And the domino effect will touch individual lives.
I am not talking about going back to coconut huts and grass skirts. We can leave those for the tourists to marvel at. I like my computer, cell phone, the mall, movies and my car, but I also feel that it is our destiny as a people to decide our fate, for better or worse. It is our birth right.
Caged things must be set free at some point. As with our children, even with all our investment, time and love, there comes the time when we have to let them seek their own path.
Ben “Sinahi” del Rosario
Mangilao
Monday, 10 August 2009 00:31 Letter to the Editor .
THIS is the picture of an independent Guam that I have in my mind. The United States keeps Anderson Air Force Base here simply as a military outpost in the Pacific and as our security. All other lands in military inventories are reverted to GovGuam, being distributed and used at our discretion.
American dollar remains to be our currency, like other independent Pacific nations that have this form of security and currency arrangement. With a stable government and currency comes investors’ confidence. All existing free enterprises continue. All jobs are retained. Mortgages and bills get paid. Now we invest in our selves.
We can take advantage of our proximity to the ocean. We can invest and develop the following initiatives:
A storage facility to accommodate fish harvests from the entire Micronesian region;
A fish cannery;
A transit point for distribution of Micronesian fish to the world;
A fueling and replenishment point for the fishing fleets. In addition to fueling, vessels can replenish supplies such as food, fishing inventory and labor.
Because of our proximity to Micronesia and Asia, these ideas are feasible and will stimulate the development of more businesses. Thousands of new jobs will be created and new monies will be infused into our economy. With new monies we will live better.
Our hospital, utilities, roads, trash and other services will be better maintained. And the domino effect will touch individual lives.
I am not talking about going back to coconut huts and grass skirts. We can leave those for the tourists to marvel at. I like my computer, cell phone, the mall, movies and my car, but I also feel that it is our destiny as a people to decide our fate, for better or worse. It is our birth right.
Caged things must be set free at some point. As with our children, even with all our investment, time and love, there comes the time when we have to let them seek their own path.
Ben “Sinahi” del Rosario
Mangilao
Tuesday, July 28, 2009
Monday, May 05, 2008
Regional Leaders Discuss Military Buildup
Regional leaders discuss military buildup issues, ideas
by Clynt Ridgell,
KUAM News
Monday, May 05, 2008
Members of the Association of Pacific Island Legislatures are on Guam, meeting with local leaders as well as military officials in order to gain a better understanding of the Guam military buildup and how their member nations can fit in. American Samoa, the Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands, Chuuk State, Kosrae, Pohnpei, Yap, Kiribati, the Marshall Islands, Nauru, the Republic of Palau, the state of Hawaii and Guam make up the APIL's membership.
It's an organization created to contribute to the acceleration of economic and social development of the member states individually and collectively. While today they were on Guam to learn more about the military buildup it appears that Guam itself still has a lot to learn. According to one of the major findings of a recently released General Accountability Office report, the U.S. Department of Defense has yet to determine any specifics with regards to the Guam buildup. For example what units, U.S. Marines, facilities, and equipment will be placed on the island.
Joint Guam Program Office forward director USN Captain Robert Lee admits that the planning process is ever changing because of the constantly changing world in which we live. "Even for the Marine Corps, as they're making this move each and everyday, they have to look at what are we going to see in 5, 10, 20 years, and so you know you can take the 8,000 Marines and transplant them. But are they the right 8,000? Exactly which forces do we need to go?" he said.
Senator Ben Pangelinan (D) says that the GAO's report is not surprising, telling KUAM News, "It's no news to me, I think that's how I would sum that up - it's no news to me that the military is still not set in their plans that they haven't identified exactly what their going to do to Guam and what their going to do for Guam. Who are they going to move?"
While Cpt. Lee says that the agreement between the governments of Japan and the United States is still set on moving Marines to Guam, he also admits that no one can says for sure whether or not a change in the U.S.'s administration will mean a change in the Marines' movement. "Anything can affect this move, but keep in mind we've already got commitments from the military, the Government of Japan, the U.S. Government. You've heard the presidential candidates talking about their commitments, so there is a possibility anything's possible. But the wheels are in motion money is being put in place assets are being put in place, so it would be a big surprise if it didn't happen."
While the move of Marines may not be a sure thing, Republican senator Jim Espaldon says the island still has to prepare for the move as if it were going to happen, saying, "The reality is and we're going to have to accept and I think we can acknowledge that we need to prepare ourselves, and so going forward even without the military plans in place and us not being able to finalize and develop our own master plan. And again, we can't do a master plan until we fully understand what the military is going to do and what kind of impact it's going to have. And yet the military, even in its draft master plan, basically states that they're waiting for us to develop a master plan, which is nonsense."
In anticipation of this military buildup, APIL president Sabino Sauchomal explains the importance their visit to Guam. "It looks like the military is here to stay," he said, "So we might as well learn what is in store for all of us those of us who are in the neighborhoods of Guam. I know there are not only bad consequences of this buildup, but there are even more opportunities good things that will happen to Guam."
Sauchomal says the buildup will no doubt open up opportunities for his people and the people of APIL's membership nations, as well.
Read the full report at GAO.gov
by Clynt Ridgell,
KUAM News
Monday, May 05, 2008
Members of the Association of Pacific Island Legislatures are on Guam, meeting with local leaders as well as military officials in order to gain a better understanding of the Guam military buildup and how their member nations can fit in. American Samoa, the Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands, Chuuk State, Kosrae, Pohnpei, Yap, Kiribati, the Marshall Islands, Nauru, the Republic of Palau, the state of Hawaii and Guam make up the APIL's membership.
It's an organization created to contribute to the acceleration of economic and social development of the member states individually and collectively. While today they were on Guam to learn more about the military buildup it appears that Guam itself still has a lot to learn. According to one of the major findings of a recently released General Accountability Office report, the U.S. Department of Defense has yet to determine any specifics with regards to the Guam buildup. For example what units, U.S. Marines, facilities, and equipment will be placed on the island.
Joint Guam Program Office forward director USN Captain Robert Lee admits that the planning process is ever changing because of the constantly changing world in which we live. "Even for the Marine Corps, as they're making this move each and everyday, they have to look at what are we going to see in 5, 10, 20 years, and so you know you can take the 8,000 Marines and transplant them. But are they the right 8,000? Exactly which forces do we need to go?" he said.
Senator Ben Pangelinan (D) says that the GAO's report is not surprising, telling KUAM News, "It's no news to me, I think that's how I would sum that up - it's no news to me that the military is still not set in their plans that they haven't identified exactly what their going to do to Guam and what their going to do for Guam. Who are they going to move?"
While Cpt. Lee says that the agreement between the governments of Japan and the United States is still set on moving Marines to Guam, he also admits that no one can says for sure whether or not a change in the U.S.'s administration will mean a change in the Marines' movement. "Anything can affect this move, but keep in mind we've already got commitments from the military, the Government of Japan, the U.S. Government. You've heard the presidential candidates talking about their commitments, so there is a possibility anything's possible. But the wheels are in motion money is being put in place assets are being put in place, so it would be a big surprise if it didn't happen."
While the move of Marines may not be a sure thing, Republican senator Jim Espaldon says the island still has to prepare for the move as if it were going to happen, saying, "The reality is and we're going to have to accept and I think we can acknowledge that we need to prepare ourselves, and so going forward even without the military plans in place and us not being able to finalize and develop our own master plan. And again, we can't do a master plan until we fully understand what the military is going to do and what kind of impact it's going to have. And yet the military, even in its draft master plan, basically states that they're waiting for us to develop a master plan, which is nonsense."
In anticipation of this military buildup, APIL president Sabino Sauchomal explains the importance their visit to Guam. "It looks like the military is here to stay," he said, "So we might as well learn what is in store for all of us those of us who are in the neighborhoods of Guam. I know there are not only bad consequences of this buildup, but there are even more opportunities good things that will happen to Guam."
Sauchomal says the buildup will no doubt open up opportunities for his people and the people of APIL's membership nations, as well.
Read the full report at GAO.gov
Friday, November 30, 2007
Japan Seeks Cooperation from Micronesia on Global Warming
Fukuda seeks cooperation from Micronesia in tackling global warming
Nov 30 08:19 AM US/Eastern
TOKYO, Nov. 30 (AP) - (Kyodo) — Prime Minister Yasuo Fukuda on Friday sought the cooperation of visiting Micronesian President Emanuel Mori in promoting Japan's proposal to launch a post-Kyoto Protocol framework for negotiations to tackle global warming in which all major greenhouse gas emitters will take part.
In their 20-minute meeting at the prime minister's office, Mori thanked Japan for its leadership on the climate change issue and expressed hope that it will take the initiative as a country that shares the same Pacific climate as island nations that are easily affected by weather conditions, Japanese officials said.
Fukuda told Mori he is fully aware that global warming is a "serious issue" for island nations such as the Federated States of Micronesia and said that Japan is proposing the negotiating framework while taking the situation of island states into account, the officials said.
Japan is proposing a forum in which all major emitters will take part in negotiations with a view to building an effective future framework for addressing climate change after the expiration in 2012 of the 1997 Kyoto Protocol for curbing greenhouse gas emissions.
The move is part of the international community's efforts to build a new regime to fight global warming. Japan earlier announced an initiative to halve greenhouse gas emissions from current levels by 2050.
At a press opportunity at the outset of their meeting, the prime minister said Japan has decided to post a full-time ambassador to Micronesia as part of efforts to further strengthen the relationship between the two countries.
"Japan and Micronesia have a historically long relationship and there are many people in your country who are of Japanese ancestry, including yourself, Mr. President," Fukuda said. "We have a particular affinity and affection for your country."
Fukuda said Japan is planning to decide shortly on the provision of grant aid to Micronesia for improvements to Pohnpei international airport and will also consider further assistance measures for the country, the officials said.
Mori expressed hope that the upgrading of Japan's diplomatic mission in Micronesia to an embassy will help to enhance bilateral ties and thanked Japan for its continued economic cooperation, they said.
Nov 30 08:19 AM US/Eastern
TOKYO, Nov. 30 (AP) - (Kyodo) — Prime Minister Yasuo Fukuda on Friday sought the cooperation of visiting Micronesian President Emanuel Mori in promoting Japan's proposal to launch a post-Kyoto Protocol framework for negotiations to tackle global warming in which all major greenhouse gas emitters will take part.
In their 20-minute meeting at the prime minister's office, Mori thanked Japan for its leadership on the climate change issue and expressed hope that it will take the initiative as a country that shares the same Pacific climate as island nations that are easily affected by weather conditions, Japanese officials said.
Fukuda told Mori he is fully aware that global warming is a "serious issue" for island nations such as the Federated States of Micronesia and said that Japan is proposing the negotiating framework while taking the situation of island states into account, the officials said.
Japan is proposing a forum in which all major emitters will take part in negotiations with a view to building an effective future framework for addressing climate change after the expiration in 2012 of the 1997 Kyoto Protocol for curbing greenhouse gas emissions.
The move is part of the international community's efforts to build a new regime to fight global warming. Japan earlier announced an initiative to halve greenhouse gas emissions from current levels by 2050.
At a press opportunity at the outset of their meeting, the prime minister said Japan has decided to post a full-time ambassador to Micronesia as part of efforts to further strengthen the relationship between the two countries.
"Japan and Micronesia have a historically long relationship and there are many people in your country who are of Japanese ancestry, including yourself, Mr. President," Fukuda said. "We have a particular affinity and affection for your country."
Fukuda said Japan is planning to decide shortly on the provision of grant aid to Micronesia for improvements to Pohnpei international airport and will also consider further assistance measures for the country, the officials said.
Mori expressed hope that the upgrading of Japan's diplomatic mission in Micronesia to an embassy will help to enhance bilateral ties and thanked Japan for its continued economic cooperation, they said.
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