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President Joseph J. Urusemal on a Working Visit to Japan

Tokyo, JAPAN (Department of Foreign Affairs): May 9, 2005 - Joseph J. Urusemal accompanied by a suit, paid an official working visit to Japan from the April 25 to 29, 2005 at the invitation of the Government of Japan.

During their stay in Japan the President had an audience with His Majesty and held meetings with Prime Minister Junichiro Koizumi, former Prime Minister Mori, Senior Vice Minister of Foreign Affairs Shuzen Tanigawa, JICA Senior Vice President Atsushi Hatakenaka and OFCF President Michio Shimada. In a luncheon meeting hosted by Mr. Koizumi, the President expressed deep appreciation to the Prime Minister for the kind invitation and hospitality extended to him.

The trip provided President Urusemal the opportunity to thank the people and government of Japan for its economic assistance over the years, which had played an important part in the economic development of the Federated States of Micronesia (FSM). The two leaders exchanged views on important issues of concern to both countries and committed themselves to working closely together to address pressing issues of mutual benefit to both countries. President Urusemal also reaffirmed FSM's steadfast support for Japan's candidatures to various bodies in the United Nations, especially Japan's bid for a permanent seat on the United Nations Security Council.

Both leaders agreed that development of bilateral relations between their two countries have been very smooth and friendly and encouraged more interactions at all levels to further strengthen the existing relations the peoples and government of the two countries have come to enjoy.

The program of visit also included Aichi Prefecture, where the President held meetings with officials of Aichi Prefecture, Konan City and Nagoya City Governments. Aichi Prefecture is the site of EXPO 2005 World Expo and President Urusemal and his delegation visited the Pacific Islands Pavilion, which include the FSM booth. He met and encouraged those individuals and group of individuals assisting with the FSM's participation, especially the Mayor and officials of Konan City for exerting so much effort in promoting the FSM. Konan City is the partner city for FSM in promoting friendship among people of the two locations.

Other officials traveling with the President were Deputy Secretary of Foreign Affairs Lorin Robert, Governor Johnny David, DAS Carl Apis and Press Officer Eliesar Rospel.