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Ambassador Josef Rychtar of the Czech Republic presents credentials to President Mori

Palikir, Pohnpei (Department of Foreign Affairs): January 24, 2012 - At 10:00 a.m. on January 20, President Manny Mori received the letters of credence from His Excellency Josef Rychtar, accrediting him as the second Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of the Czech Republic to the Federated States of Micronesia.

The FSM and the Czech Republic established diplomatic relations since 2003 on the basis of mutual interest and respect for each other's sovereignty.

In welcoming the Ambassador, President Mori conveyed his interest to work with the Ambassador and his government of the Czech Republic at all levels and spoke of his appreciation for development cooperation that are aimed at supporting community enrichment and livelihood.

The President also expressed his appreciation for the Czech Republic's financial pledge on climate change in order to assist developing countries and requested for the country's continued support in international climate change debates.

In his response, Ambassador Rychtar thanked the President for receiving him and expressed his country's willingness to assist the FSM as a diplomatic partner. He also complimented the FSM on its efforts in promoting issues of climate change and the environment at the global scene.

Also at the short ceremony were Vice President Alik L. Alik and the cabinet members.

During his short stay in Pohnpei, Ambassador Rychtar also took time to pay courtesy call on Governor John Ehsa and met with Dr. Vita A. Skilling, Secretary of the Department of Health and Social Affairs. He departed Pohnpei for Chuuk on January 21 to meet with Governor Johnson Elimo before returning to Manila.

For more information, please contact the Department of Foreign Affairs at 320-2641.