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FSM Leadership holds internal consultation

Palikir, POHNPEI (FSM Information Services): November 30, 2001 - On November 26 2001, the Leaderships of the Federated States of Micronesia met in Palikir for an internal consultation on pressing national issues that are impacted by the current world situation.

The consultation generally focused on issues that were outside the scope of the Economic Policy Implementation Council (EPIC) meetings. The issues of discussion included presentations by FSM's Ambassador to the U.S., Ambassador Jesse Marehalau, who briefed the leadership on safety and security, US budgetary implications as they relate to Compact Negotiations and the September 11 incidents. The Leadership was also briefed by on monetary issues that involve the recently passed Asia Development Bank (ADB) loans.

Also on the agenda are other ADB Projects and updates on several Agreements: Asia, Caribbean, Pacific, and European Union(ACP/EU); Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) and other general national issues.

The three-day leadership consultation meeting wrapped up on November 28, with the Leadership being treated to a reception hosted by the President at Cliff Rainbow Hotel. The meeting comprised of the following Leaderships: the President and his Cabinet, members of FSM Congress, the State Governors and State Speakers and Presiding officers.