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The 15^th FSM Congress Convenes In Its Second Regular Session

Palikir, POHNPEI (FSM Information Service): September 18, 2007 - President Manny Mori was among many who observed The Fifteenth Congress of the Federated States of Micronesia as it convenes in its second Regular session on September 12, 2007 in the Congress Chamber.

The delegation from the National People's Congress of the People's Republic of China headed by Honorable JIANG Zhenghua, Vice Chairman of the Standing Committee of the National People's Congress was also there to observe the FSM Congress in the opening session.

Speaker Figir opened the session with a solemn and cheerful September 11 message. Speaker Figir indicated that September 12 in the FSM is September 11 in the United States due to time difference, and ask that Congress to remember, in their prayers, the more than 3000 people who were killed as a result of the terrorist attack six years ago.

"September 11, 2001 is a momentous date that will never be forgotten." He added.

Furthermore, Speaker Figir also mentioned other happier September 11's for the FSM.

On September 11, 1945, a US Navy destroyer came to Pohnpei to receive the surrender of the occupying army, ending WW II on Pohnpei. The same scenario was repeated throughout Micronesia.

It was just in time because on a lot of islands the population was starving as a result of war shortages.

This is the event that was celebrated as Liberation Day ever since. September 11, 1945 was the beginning of the special relationship with the United States.

Also, on a September 11, in 1989 this time we had a most momentous event. The most populous country on Earth had just established diplomatic relations with one of the smallest countries on Earth by population.

That recognition from China was a determination factor on our admission to the United Nations. There too, was a beginning of a great friendship.

"So September 11 has great meanings for the FSM", speaker Figir concluded.

Among other Business transactions, Congressional Resolution No. 15 - 38 was adopted. Welcoming and thanking the delegation from the National People's Congress of the People's Republic of China to the Federated States of Micronesia.

The session went into recess at 11:30 AM.