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Nena's First SNLC Met

PALIKIR, Pohnpei (FSM Information Service): May 13 1997 - The first State National Leadership Conference (SNLC) in the new FSM President Jacob Nena's term of Presidency convened on May 13, 1997, at the Central Facility Building in Palikir, FSM Capital, by Temporary Chairman Secretary of the Department of Health Services, Dr. Eliuel Pretrick. Reverend Bethwel Henry gave the opening prayer after which President Nena was unanimously elected as Chairman.

In taking the chair, the President welcomed all participants stressing the importance of the Conference to deal with the issues facing the nation which were enumerated in the agenda.

Congress Speaker Jack Fritz in his remarks emphasized the importance of a cooperative spirit between the FSM National Government and the State Governments. Adding that the spirit of compromise is needed if there can be consensus on important issues. Fritz called for honesty and ethical decisions by the leaders and to dedicate the available financial resources to help solve existing problems. There are but only four years of secured financial assistance under the Compact.

Newly elected Chuuk Governor Ansito Walter in his remarks congratulated President Nena and Vice President Leo Falcam on assuming their new and highest posts in the FSM Government.

Stressing the importance of quality leadership and clean government which would lead to prosperity which the people of Chuuk wished for. Governor Walter asked for help from other States and promised to do his part when requested, closing his remarks by saying that it is indeed an honor, privilege and with humility that he would serve his state.

The Conference deliberated on the 10.6 million loan from the Asian Development Bank (ADB) for water and sanitation improvement projects and the early retirement loan of $18 million also from the ADB to be distributed as follows: Chuuk $5.3 million; Pohnpei ,$ 4.2 million; Yap, $3.5 million; Kosrae $2 million; and National Government, $3 million. Loan agreements have been completed and drawdown of the first $10 million will be made as soon as a State Legislature gives its approval. At least two states are needed to give their approval to trigger the drawdown.

Lunch recess was called for by Chairman Nena and to reconvene in the afternoon.