Government of the Federated States of Micronesia

Executive presents urgent national matters in special session

Colonia, YAP(FSM Information Services): December 16, 2004 - The Executive Branch presented to the 13th Congress of the Federated States of Micronesia certain issues of national urgency during its Special Session currently underway in Yap.

The week-long Sixth Special Session of the 13th FSM Congress is being held at the Chambers of the Yap State Legislature and is expected to conclude its proceedings and deliberations by the end of the week.

President Joseph J. Urusemal, who was in Yap for Monday's opening session, referenced the Executive Branch's priority issues as listed in his letter to Speaker Peter M. Christian. He urged consideration of the noted national issues, which among others included:

  • the national Sustainable Development Plan (SDP);

  • the supplemental budget request, notably funding for the FSM Games;

  • ratification of certain regional and international agreements; and

  • confirmation of the various nominations.

President Urusemal concluded with wishes for a successful session and noted that the Executive Branch and its various agencies are in Yap to work with the Legislative Branch to "make this Special Session not only historic in its setting, but also successful in its deliberation."

The Special Session in Yap marks Micronesian history as the first Session of the National Legislative Body to be held in the State since the inception of the Congress of Micronesia over 40 years ago until the establishment of today's Congress of the FSM.

Witnesses to the opening of the Sixth Special Session of the 13th FSM Congress included, President Urusemal and his Cabinet, Governor Robert Ruecho and members of his Cabinet, Vice Speaker James Mangefel of the Yap State Legislature and the Yap State Legislators, Chief Bruno Tharangan of the Council of Pilung, Chief Hilary Tacheliol of the Council of Tamol, various state and national officials along with students from the various surrounding schools, a group of which sang the National Anthem.