President Simina Completes Working Visit to Yap State and its Outer Islands Friday, May 30, 2025, /// DYCA PIO

Yap, FM – His Excellency Wesley W. Simina, President of the Federated States of Micronesia (FSM) and Madame First Lady Ancelly Simina along with their delegation have concluded a working visit to Yap State and its outer islands, reaffirming the National Government’s commitment to unity, inclusive development, and strengthened service delivery across all corners of the nation.

Upon arrival in Yap on May 20, President Simina paid a courtesy call on the Yap State leadership, where he was warmly received by the state’s executive, legislative, and traditional leaders. In his remarks, the President expressed appreciation for the opportunity to engage directly with Yap’s leaders, and reaffirmed the importance of intergovernmental cooperation. “It is always a privilege to return to Yap and to be among the pillars of leadership who serve our people with dedication,” he said.

During the meeting, President Simina provided key updates on national developments, including the recent completion of the FSM National Convention Center in Palikir, ongoing implementation of the Amended Compact of Free Association, and advocacy efforts for FSM veterans. He also acknowledged challenges posed by recent U.S. funding cuts and provided updates on the working group he’s established to address these issues. The President also reiterated national support for Yap in addressing the legal and technical demands surrounding the Department of Defense (DoD) project in the state.

A highlight of the Yap leg of the visit was the official handover of a state-of-the-art X-ray scanning machine at the Yap International Airport. In a ceremony attended by traditional leaders, members of the 11th Yap State Legislature, and Mr. Tapan Mishra, UN Resident Coordinator to the FSM, President Simina emphasized the importance of the equipment for border security and environmental protection. “This equipment represents an important step forward in our shared commitment to protecting our ports of entry,” he stated. The scanner, acquired through the GEF-6 FSM Invasive Alien Species Project with support from UNDP, will aid in detecting prohibited goods, harmful pests, and invasive species while also improving customs efficiency and trade facilitation.

“This milestone reflects not only national government commitment but also the power of strong partnerships,” the President added, thanking Mr. Mishra and the broader UN system for their continued support.

Following his engagements in Colonia, President Simina embarked aboard the FSS Bethwel Henry for the outer islands of Ulithi and Woleai. His visit was part of the Simina-Palik Administration’s “KAMORALE” agenda of building national unity and inclusion ensuring that the voices and needs of even the most remote communities are heard and addressed.

In Ulithi, President Simina celebrated the graduation of the Outer Islands High School and in his address encouraged the Class of 2025 to rise above adversity, remain rooted in their cultural identity, and serve their communities with pride and determination.

The President’s next stop was Woleai, where he attended the groundbreaking ceremony for the Woleai Airstrip Rehabilitation Projecta long-awaited investment project funded by the FSM Congress to restore air connectivity and improve transportation access for the atoll.

In Woleai, the President delivered the keynote address at the Neighboring Islands Central High School graduation. Echoing the ceremony’s theme“The moment of our struggles defines who we are, how we handle it is what matters”President Simina shared reflections on his own upbringing in the Mortlocks and encouraged students to lead with resilience, humility, and purpose. He urged them to: set goals while remaining flexible, commit to lifelong learning, stay connected to their communities, and uplift others.

Throughout his journey, President Simina visited with local communities, spent time with elders, and paid his respects to traditional leaders emphasizing the National Government’s recognition of the outer islands as fundamental to the nation’s identity and future.

Earlier today, May 30, 2025. His Excellency Wesley W. Simina, President of the Federated States of Micronesia (FSM) and Madame First Lady Ancelly Simina along with their delegation departed Yap at 11:00 AM going to Palau.

(For more information, please contact the Department of Youth and Civic Affairs at (691)350-2168 or 350-DYCA thank you)