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President Mori Receives Credentials From Ambassador Quinn of Australia

Palikir, Pohnpei (FSM Information Services): April 7, 2011 - On April 4, 2011, H.E. President Manny Mori received the Letters of Credence from H.E. Martin Quinn, Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary to FSM, at 3:00 P.M in the President's Conference Room, Palikir, Pohnpei.

Ambassador Quinn, following the presentation of his credentials, relayed "good wishes" from H.E. Julia Gillard, Prime Minister of Australia, and emphasized that he is "conscious of the responsibility" he is to assume to "protect and develop the relationship that has grown between the Federated States of Micronesia and Australia" [...] to use his own phrase.

Speaking directly to the President , "I personally congratulate your Excellency on your commitment to improve good governance and sound financial management and protection of the government."

In acknowledging reciprocal support at the end of his remarks, the Ambassador said, "I would like to thank you for FSM's support for our (Australia's) UN Security Council candidacy and for your support, through the Pacific Islands Forum, for the restoration of democracy in Fiji."

President Mori in responding pointed out that FSM and Australia have diplomatic relations for about twenty-three years now [...] one that, in the President's words, "continues to thrive at all levels, underpin by shared values and interests."

"We remain grateful for the maritime development assistance relating to the Patrol Boat Program, border management, human resource and community development, among others", the President continued to express.

President Mori also pointed out Australia's "active role" in ensuring a stable and peaceful Pacific region is "commendable" and spoke of his confidence that Ambassador Quinn will further the continued strengthening of relationship between the two nations.

Also in attendance: Honorable Alik L. Alik, Vice President of the FSM, Honorable Fredrico Primo, Vice Speaker of FSM Congress, Honorable Churchill Edward, Lt. Governor of the State of Pohnpei, Madam Changkol Quinn, Ambassador Quinn's wife, H.E. Ambassador Prahar of the United States, H.E. Ambassador Suzuki of Japan, Secretary Vita Skilling, Dept. of Health and Social Affairs, Secretary Kasiano Shoniber, Dept. of Education, Deputy Secretary Jane Chigyal, Department of Foreign Affairs, Mr. Kasio Mida, Chief of Staff, Mr. Steven George, Department of Justice, Mr. Patrick Blank and other staff from Australian Embassy, and other staff from various National Government offices.