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Courtesy Calls by Vice President Falcam

PALIKIR, Pohnpei (FSM Information Service): June 4, 1997 - FSM Vice President Leo A. Falcam, paid courtesy calls on Governor Del S. Pangelinan and Legislature Speaker Bernell Edwards and the Leadership and Members of Pohnpei State Legislature on May 29, 1997. Falcam was accompanied by Secretary John Ehsa of the FSM Department of Finance and Director Kapilly Capelle, Office of Administrative Services.

A "new bridge" has been established by the new administration at the National Government to "bridge" the national and State Governments together, Falcam stated, adding that the "new bridge" is founded on new working relationship and cooperation that the new administration believe must exist and be exercised between the States and the National Governments.

The Vice President told Pohnpei State leaders, "we are ready to work with you and we are committed to cooperate with you. We will have differences, but there are rooms for compromise, especially in the State of Pohnpei."

The National Government and State Governments should work together as partners to achieve the common goals in the development of this country, Falcam stated.

The National Government should not be considered a liability on what is to be done for our governments. The new Vice President extended invitations to the leaders to visit the FSM Capital for talks with the National Government Leaders when it is necessary to have discussion on matters of concern and interest to both the States and National Governments.

Pohnpei State Governor Del S. Pangelinan expressed appreciation on behalf of the Pohnpei leaders by saying that the "new bridge" will pave (the) way for better communication and improved relationship between the state and the national leaders.

Pangelinan requested Falcam to assist Pohnpei secure funding assistance from the national government. Governor Pangelinan said he has lots of confidence in Vice President Falcam to guide and assist towards an improved and continued future working relationship.

"We respect your ideas and guidance and we will be coming to you for assistance. There is always day light at the end of the tunnel," the Governor concluded. Speaker Edward commented that the "new bridge" will bring about new time, new thinking and new ideas for a better working relationship between the Pohnpei leadership at the National Government and at the State level.

Pohnpei State Government is organizing a one-day conference on June 3, 1997, at the Cliff Rainbow Hotel to be attended by officials from the three branches of the State Government, and members of Pohnpei State delegation to the FSM Congress. Vice President Falcam has been invited to attend this meeting.

The Vice President's assistance was specifically requested on the following issues: to assist Pohnpei in its financial crisis; assistance from the National Government in established State priorities; FSM National Government to allow the States to utilize foreign assistance funds intended for each state in the FSM; seek that assistance funds from the FSM Development Bank to be handled in the manner to promote the economic development of the states; that consultation meetings with the state leaders be held more frequently.

Governor Pangelinan told the Vice President that he will submit a set of recommendations on the ADB Water Project Loan which will include a request for the extension of the loan payment deadline.

Vice President Falcam made similar courtesy calls on the leadership of Chuuk State on Saturday (May 24) while in Chuuk as guest speaker at the Saraman Chuuk Academy graduation exercise. Falcam will visit the State of Yap and Kosrae at a later date to be announced.