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FSM, Ireland near establishing diplomatic relations

POHNPEI, Palikir (FSM Information Service): September 15, 2000 - The governments of the Federated States of Micronesia and Ireland are close to formalizing diplomatic relations, according to a letter from President Leo A. Falcam to FSM Congress Speaker Jack Fritz.

In his letter, dated September 4, the President wrote, "It is hoped that the necessary documents can be executed between our respective Missions in New York."

President Falcam is in New York attending the Millennium Summit being held at the United Nations.

When the Special Envoy of the government of Ireland to the FSM, Richard O'Brien visited the FSM July 13-15 of this year, he conveyed the message that the Irish government was seeking establishment of formal diplomatic relations with the FSM, according to a memorandum from FSM Acting Secretary of Foreign Affairs Ieske K. Iehsi.

The Special Envoy was here to lobby the FSM for support of Ireland's candidature for the non-permanent seat in the UN Security Council, according to the memorandum.

An election for the purpose of filling two Security Council seats will be held during the UN General Assembly Session to meet after the Millennium Summit.

Norway and Italy are also vying for the seats.

Ireland has been one of the strong supporters of the FSM in the international arena, particularly in the areas of environment and sustainable development, according to the memorandum.

Ireland supported FSM's membership in the African, Caribbean, and the Pacific Group/European Union Partnership Agreement, wrote Iehsi.