Press Releases
Japan-Federated States of Micronesia Foreign Ministers’ Meeting and Working Lunch
December 21, 2023
On December 21, 2023, commencing at 11:05 a.m. for approximately 90 minutes, Ms. KAMIKAWA Yoko, Minister for Foreign Affairs of Japan, held a meeting and a working lunch with Hon. Lorin S. Robert, Secretary of the Department of Foreign Affairs of the Federated States of Micronesia (FSM). Prior to the meeting, the two ministers held a ceremony of signing notes on the provision of infrastructure equipment (Grant Assistance Economic and Social Development Programme).
- At the outset, Minister Kamikawa stated that Japan and the FSM are friends with "kizuna" that has lasted for about 150 years, as well as important partners who share common interests and values, and that she hoped to further strengthen the relations between the two countries. In response, Minister Robert stated that he regarded Japan, with which he has had a relationship since 1985 when he engaged in the opening of the FSM office in Japan as his second home connected with “kizuna” and was very pleased to be in Japan again at the invitation by Japan as a guest of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. He also expressed his hope to further strengthen bilateral relations.
- Minister Kamikawa stated that Japan has been supporting sustainable and resilient development of the FSM through bilateral efforts and the Pacific Islands Leaders Meeting (PALM) process and mentioned about the specific cooperations. In response, Minister Robert expressed his deep appreciation for Japan's longstanding cooperation for the FSM.
- Minister Kamikawa expressed Japan’s strongly support for the Pacific Islands Forum (PIF)'s “2050 Strategy for the Blue Pacific Continent” and the "family first" approach to deal with security in the region. She also stated that she looked forward to discussing matters at the 10th Pacific Islands Leaders Meeting (PALM 10) to be held next year to pursue outcomes in line with the “2050 strategy”. The two ministers concurred to work closely together in preparation for the PALM 10 next year.
- Regarding ALPS treated water, Minister Kamikawa expressed her gratitude for the understanding and trust expressed by the FSM. She explained that through the monitoring under the continued engagement of the IAEA, it has been confirmed that the discharge has been conducted safely as planned, explained that she herself visited the TEPCO Fukushima Daiichi Nuclear Power Station 2 days ago and confirmed the various efforts being made to ensure the safety. She then stated that Japan would continue to provide information in a highly transparent manner. In response, Minister Robert reiterated his confidence in Japan's efforts to ensure the safety.
- Minister Kamikawa expressed her desire for close cooperation between the two countries to realize a “Free and Open Indo-Pacific (FOIP)” and had Minister Rober’s understanding and support.
- The two ministers also exchanged views on regional situations, including the situation in East Asia, and shared concerns about the situation in the East and South China Sea. The two ministers also confirmed that they would continue to collaborate in responding to North Korea, including on the issues of nuclear and missiles and the abductions.
- The two ministers concurred to work together for concrete progress in the Security Council reform.