Signing Ceremony (Pohnpei Port Expansion and Provision of a Fisheries Research Vessel and Fisheries Equipment)
2024/9/6
On September 3, 2024, the Exchange of Notes for the Pohnpei Port Expansion Project (Around 4.6 billion Yen or around 30 million USD) and the Provision of a Fisheries Research Vessel and Fisheries Equipment (1.4 billion Yen or around 10 million USD) were signed by His Excellency KAGOMIYA Nobuo, Ambassador of Japan to the Federated States of Micronesia (FSM) and The Hon. Lorin S. Robert, Secretary of Department of Foreign Affairs, in Palikir.
The port of Pohnpei is a vital lifeline for the country, which relies on maritime transport for most of its supplies. However, the port lacks sufficient space, leading to difficulties in unloading goods. This has also affected the landing of fish, while fisheries is an very important industry for the country. The current Pohnpei Port Expansion Project aims to significantly expand the quay, which is expected to increase the port's capacity and improve the FSM's connectivity with domestic and international partners.
In addition, the provision of essential equipment such as vessels, ice-making machines and fishing gear for the country's important fishing industry is expected to strengthen sustainable fisheries development.
During the signing ceremony, Ambassador Kagomiya expressed his gratitude, particularly regarding the "Pohnpei Port Expansion Project," stating that although the project faced delays due to the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic, the efforts of those involved made it possible to reach this day. He also expressed his pleasure at being able to exchange the letters today. He added that he sincerely wishes these projects will help the FSM’s people’s own efforts for economic and social development.
Foreign Minister Robert expressed his gratitude for Japan's long-standing assistance and stated that it is a pleasure to see the economic and industrial improvements for the people of the Federated States of Micronesia through this aid from Japan.
The port of Pohnpei is a vital lifeline for the country, which relies on maritime transport for most of its supplies. However, the port lacks sufficient space, leading to difficulties in unloading goods. This has also affected the landing of fish, while fisheries is an very important industry for the country. The current Pohnpei Port Expansion Project aims to significantly expand the quay, which is expected to increase the port's capacity and improve the FSM's connectivity with domestic and international partners.
In addition, the provision of essential equipment such as vessels, ice-making machines and fishing gear for the country's important fishing industry is expected to strengthen sustainable fisheries development.
During the signing ceremony, Ambassador Kagomiya expressed his gratitude, particularly regarding the "Pohnpei Port Expansion Project," stating that although the project faced delays due to the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic, the efforts of those involved made it possible to reach this day. He also expressed his pleasure at being able to exchange the letters today. He added that he sincerely wishes these projects will help the FSM’s people’s own efforts for economic and social development.
Foreign Minister Robert expressed his gratitude for Japan's long-standing assistance and stated that it is a pleasure to see the economic and industrial improvements for the people of the Federated States of Micronesia through this aid from Japan.
Ambassador Kagomiya and Secretary Robert signing.
Exchanging the Notes
Ambassador Kagomiya delivering a speech
Secretary Robert delivering a speech
Group photo