On November 10th, a courtesy introductory meeting was arranged virtually between Ambassador Akillino H. Susaia and Mr. Taylor Ruggles, who is the new Director of the Office of Australia, New Zealand, and Pacific Islands, at the U.S. Department of State. As Director, Mr. Ruggles is charged with the immediate responsibility to oversee daily activities relating to the FSM-US relations. He replaces Suzanne Lawrence, who retired earlier, both as Director of the Office and as a member of the Joint Economic Management Committee (JEMCO).
The meeting provided the opportunity to exchange views on ways to continue strengthening the FSM-US relations. Director Taylor preceded his comments by acknowledging an earlier arranged call between the Honorable Wendy Sherman, Deputy Secretary of State and the Honorable Kandhi Elieisar, FSM Secretary of Foreign Affairs. The earlier meeting of the two top diplomats was successful and cordial in reaffirming the enduring relations of the FSM and the United States under the Compact of Free Association. Director Ruggles then alluded to the ongoing Compact negotiations as the biggest task at present and pledged the support of his office and all the relevant departments and agencies of the U.S. Government.
Ambassador reciprocated with a statement of support as well from President David W. Panuelo and the FSM Government towards an enduring relationship and a successful outcome of the negotiations based on mutual respect and interest. The two also discussed other issues including cooperation in the framework of a free and open Indo-Pacific region.
Please contact the Embassy of the Federated States of Micronesia (FSM) in D.C., at (202)223-4383 or Email at dcmission@fsmembassy.fm should you have any questions.
