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New Ambassador from China to FSM Presents Credentials to President Mori

Palikir, Pohnpei (FSM Information Services): August 21, 2009 - On Monday, August 17, 2009, the new Ambassador from China to the FSM, H.E. Zhang Weidong, presented his Letter of Credence to President Mori in front of a crowd in the President's Conference Room in Palikir. Attending the ceremony were the Dean and other members of the Diplomatic Corps, Associate Justice Dennis Yamase, Executive Cabinet members, and the Governor of Pohnpei State.

In his remarks, Ambassador Zhang paid "high respects and good wishes" to the government and people of Micronesia on behalf of the Chinese government and people. He spoke of China's commitment to develop friendly and cooperative relations with the FSM on the basis of the 5 principles of peaceful coexistence. The Ambassador also said that "proper cooperation in economy, trade and other views has been deepened" by the 20 year relationship that has sought common development through mutual economic support. Ambassador Zhang finished his remarks by saying that during his tenure, he will make every effort to further the friendship between "our two peoples and friendly, cooperative relations between our two countries," and that he is confident that his mission will receive strong assistance and support from President Mori and the FSM National Government.

Following the Ambassador's remarks, President Mori took the podium and welcomed everyone. He explained that he was pleased to officially receive Ambassador Zhang's Letter of Credence and he offered his sincere congratulations and a warm welcome to the FSM and the growing diplomatic community here in Pohnpei. The President mentioned that the new Ambassador's accreditation is timely with this year's plan to jointly commemorate the twentieth anniversary of FSM-China relations and the "significant strides we have made together in cultivating and strengthening that relationship." President Mori gave his appreciation for the financial and technical assistance that has contributed to the education and training of FSM citizens, the various infrastructure projects, and the community farming and biogas projects that have gone on in Pohnpei and Chuuk States. The President said that these were a "tribute to the diligent and cooperative efforts by officials of our two governments, who are determined to translate our shared values and interests into concrete achievements for the betterment of our peoples."

The President ended his remarks by saying that his administration earnestly looks forward to working closely with "you and your staff to further advance the strong relationship to new heights based on fundamental principles and interests shared by our two governments. It is in the vital interest of my country to continue to adhere to the one-China policy as we have consistently done in the past."

FSMPIO is providing an audio link to listen to the speeches as they were given. You can access this by visiting our website at www.fsmpio.fm and clicking on the link attached to this press release posted to the website.