Marshall Islands seeks US assurance to preserve local flexibility in prioritizing COFA projects
- Admin
- 8 minutes ago
- 2 min read
By Mar-Vic Cagurangan
While vowing to ensure strong accountability, sound administration, transparency, and measurable outcomes in implementing U.S.-funded programs, Marshall Islands President Hilda Heine has reminded Washington to preserve her government’s flexibility in responding to the “extraordinary and unmet needs” of local communities.
The Marshall Islands' project management autonomy is sealed under Article 18 of the Compact of Free Association, which recognizes the Marshall Islands’ “unique circumstances,” including the geographic, logistical, and administrative challenges associated with serving communities across the country.
Heine reaffirmed her government’s commitment to “a constructive and enduring partnership” during her meeting with William Hague, assistant secretary of the U.S. Department of the Interior, on the margins of the Micronesian Islands Forum in Pohnpei on Aug. 19.
ADVERTISEMENT
The U.S. and the Marshall Islands signed a new agreement in 2024, extending Washington’s economic provisions for another 20 years.
The Marshall Islands stands to receive $2.3 billion, which forms part of the $7 billion pledged to the freely associated states, which also include Palau and the Federated States of Micronesia, over two decades.
The U.S. Department of the Interior’s Office of Insular Affairs provides Technical Assistance Program funding to the Marshall Islands government with over $350 million in grants earmarked for infrastructural support for health and educational facilities in Majuro, Ebeye and the neighboring islands.
Heine expressed confidence that continued dialogue and cooperation would help both governments advance their "shared objective of ensuring that compact resources are responsibly managed and deliver meaningful benefits" for the Marshallese population.
Heine underscored the value of continued dialogue between the Marshall Islands and the United States “in strengthening program implementation while ensuring that assistance remains responsive to community priorities.”
The agreement also includes $15 million to educate Marshall Islanders about nuclear activities, while $132 million is set aside this year for the needs of people who live on Kwajalein.
Subscribe to
our digital
monthly issue
