Government of the Federated States of Micronesia

National Tourism Workshop Scheduled For This Month

PALIKIR, Pohnpei (FSM Information Service): April 30, 1998 - a tourism workshop on Strategic Tourism Development Plan is scheduled for May 4 to the 7th in Pohnpei, according to an April 17, communication from President Jacob Nena to all FSM State Governors.

The Department of Economic Affairs together with the state offices of tourism are responsible for organizing the conference. The agenda include Strategic Tourism Development Plan; role of the National Government; National Tourism Council; State Marketing Plans for the rest of 1998 and Calendar Year 1999; Marketing Slogan and Theme; Tourism Training and Standard Development; and Visitors Survey (Customs and Quarantine) forms, Nena stated.

In order to develop an overall national tourism plan for the rest of the year 1998 and calendar year 1999, it is necessary for each state to present a clear outline of their marketing plans and be ready to discuss the suggested agenda items.

With this meeting each state would take stock of areas where s state and national tourism offices can formulate programs cooperatively, which will be of mutual benefits, promote the FSM externally and boost the development of this economic sector.

The FSM Department of Economic Affairs is paying for the costs of two participants each from Yap, Chuuk, Pohnpei and Kosrae. However, any additional participants are welcome, provided the sending organization or state bears their travel expenses.

Nena concluded by inviting the State Governors to submit to the Secretary of the Department of Economic Affairs any additional agenda item they may wish to be discussed in the conference.