US recognizes Micronesia's sovereignty, Landau assures FSM president
By Pacific Island Times News Staff
Weno, Chuuk—Christopher Landau, deputy secretary of the U.S. Department of State, has assured the Federated States of Micronesia that Washington recognizes the Pacific island nation's status as an independent state.
During a meeting in Weno on Sept. 5, Landau and FSM President Wesley Simina reaffirmed "the enduring FSM–U.S. partnership and the mutual respect that underpins the two countries’ unique relationship under the Compact of Free Association."
Wesley stressed the importance of acknowledging the FSM's sovereignty and upholding mutual respect in the wake of President Trump’s recent Truth Social post, which categorized the island nation as a U.S. territory, along with the Marshall Islands, another freely associated state.
"The FSM is a sovereign nation. The United States and the FSM have full diplomatic relations and maintain deep ties and a cooperative relationship," reads the bilateral relations fact sheet published by the State Department on its website on Oct, 9, 2024
ADVERTISEMENT
Under the compact, the United States has full authority and responsibility for the FSM's defense and security. The treaty also grants the U.S. military access to the FSM's waters, land and airspace.
Washington provides the FSM $140 million in grant assistance every year, along with a variety of federal programs and services, through FY2043.
During his visit to the FSM, Landau announced an additional $96 million for Typhoon Sinlaku recovery and reconstruction, expected to support the rebuilding of approximately 700 homes and repairs to around 1,000 buildings, including schools, hospitals and other essential facilities.
"The announcement marks an important step toward recovery, with reconstruction activities expected to proceed following the completion of the necessary assessments, planning and implementation arrangements," states a press release from the FSM government.
Subscribe to
our digital
monthly issue
