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FSM and Japan hold Consultation Meeting on Economic Cooperation

Palikir, Pohnpei (FSM Information Services): February 16, 2012 - The FSM--Japan Policy Consultation Meeting on Economic Cooperation was held on February 10 at the FSM Department of Foreign Affairs. Present at the meeting from Japanese side were Ambassador Eiichi Suzuki, Mr. Hiroyuki Orikasa, Senior Deputy Director, International Cooperation Bureau of Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Japan and Mr. Naoyoshi Sasaki, Resident Representative of JICA Micronesia Office. From the FSM were Secretary Lorin Robert, Department of Foreign Affair, Secretary Marion Henry, Department of Resources and Development, as well as other key staff from the departments.

At the beginning of the consultation meeting, Ambassador Suzuki expressed his appreciation for the assistance from the people of the FSM to the victims of the Great East Japan Earthquake and tsunami. A wide range of issues were discussed including the overview of FSM's economic and social situation and development policies and Japan's economic cooperation policies. There were also some discussions on the review of ongoing projects and other proposed projects being entertained by both countries.

FSM highlighted the high demand for assistance in transportation in the immediate terms, pointing out that Caroline Voyager alone cannot handle the outstanding need for inter-island services. Japan expressed its intention to look into the possibilities of assistance upon confirming needs for the marine transportation services.

Regarding the shoreline protection and road project in Kosrae State, the FSM explained that the project is crucial from the view point of protecting Human Security. Japan expressed the intention to study the possibilities of assistance on this issue through further information gathering.

Japan pointed out that the proper follow-up of the past projects is important and strongly requested for the prompt procedure for the use of the extended area of the runway at the Pohnpei International Airport. FSM indicated that efforts are being made for the improved airport to be in full-swing operation by June of this year.

Regarding the maintenance work that has been provided for the PUC generators by JICA as a follow-up assistance, Japan emphasized that the procurement of spare parts for and periodic maintenance of the generators are something the FSM will have to shoulder in the long run.

The fruitful meeting allowed for candid discussions and careful planning on how assistance can best be utilized according to priorities in the spirit of mutual consent. Both countries acknowledged the need to hold the Policy Consultation Meeting on Economic Cooperation periodically, preferably every two years.

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