- Senator the Hon Penny Wong, Minister for Foreign Affairs
The Australian Government this week welcomes the President of the Federated States of Micronesia (FSM) H.E. Wesley W. Simina to Canberra, marking the first official bilateral visit by an FSM head of state in nearly 30 years.
Australia and FSM have a strong and enduring partnership grounded in our shared commitment to a safe and secure Pacific.
During his visit, President Simina will meet with the Governor-General, Prime Minister and key cabinet ministers. He is accompanied by Speaker of the FSM Congress Esmond B. Moses, Secretary of Justice Leonito Bacalando Jr, Secretary of Resources and Development Elina Akinaga and Acting Secretary for Foreign Affairs Ricky Cantero.
FSM and Australia will sign a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) to enhance our nations' maritime security cooperation. This will enable FSM to access support under Australia's increased investment in maritime security partnerships in the region. FSM will also sign two MOUs to implement the Pacific Policing Initiative – the key policing cooperation mechanism in the Pacific.
Australia, in partnership with FSM, will provide a $2.5 million package, from within the existing bilateral development budget, to support climate resilience. This will include ensuring girls and children with disabilities have access to safe drinking water and basic sanitation in schools, and support to upgrade emergency evacuation shelters.
Australia welcomes FSM's strong advocacy on climate change and looks forward to working with FSM on climate action and a successful Pacific Pre-COP in Fiji and a leaders' side visit to Tuvalu.
Quotes attributable to Foreign Minister Penny Wong:
"This visit speaks to the strength of the relationship between Australia and the Federated States of Micronesia and the value we place on further strengthening that partnership.
"Both our countries share a strong commitment to Pacific priorities, including regional stability, sustainable development and climate resilience.
"The visit reflects Australia's commitment to building close and enduring ties with all members of the Pacific family."
Quotes attributable to Minister for Pacific Island Affairs Pat Conroy:
"President Simina's visit demonstrates the deepening ties between the Federated States of Micronesia and Australia.
"The Pacific is on the frontline of the climate crisis, the single largest threat to the lives, livelihoods, culture and security of Pacific communities.
"This visit builds on our longstanding cooperation on climate action and disaster resilience, and advances our shared commitment to creating economic opportunities for women and children and to strengthening maritime security."