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FSM's Vice President Alik Receives Members of the Kobe Foreign Traders Association

Palikir, POHNPEI (FSM Information Services): February 6, 2008 - Vice President Alik L. Alik received a delegation from Kobe Zenchubo (Kobe Foreign Traders Association) in his office on February 4, 2008. The delegation was comprised of twelve members from nine medium sized companies in Kobe, Hyogo Prefecture. The purpose of the mission is to look into potential business ventures in the FSM particularly in the area of fisheries.

The visit was made in conjunction with the FSM Government's "Economic Diplomacy Mandate", and was arranged by the FSM's Honorary Consul in the Kinki Region in close coordination with the FSM Embassy in Tokyo.

In his welcoming remarks, the Vice President thanked the delegation for the visit which he said was important and timely, given that the FSM Government has recently taken initiatives in promoting commercial and investment ties with Japan, as well as to foster other areas such as fisheries, tourism, and agriculture.

He further noted that the FSM is encouraged by the visit and looks forward to collaborating with the mission on areas or sectors that have potential business development opportunities. He said, "While FSM appreciates the assistance extended by the Government and people of Japan through its ODA (Overseas Development Assistance) programs, FSM also appreciates and recognizes the important role the business sectors can play in its development endeavors."

He wished them a fruitful visit and hoped that it would foster new relations and develop new business interactions between the people of the two nations.

The delegation will be visiting Chuuk State after the completion of their visit to Pohnpei State.