February 11, 2024

Kolonia, Pohnpei: February 9, 2024 – The Governor’s Disaster Advisory Committee convened to provide critical updates on the ongoing emergency response efforts to address the effects of drought and seawater inundation in the outer islands. Governor Stevenson A. Joseph and Lt. Governor Ioanis, presiding over the meeting at the Emergency Operations Center, received comprehensive briefings from key departments leading the response, including the Department of Public Safety and Pohnpei Utilities Corporation (PUC). Mr. Patrick Carl, Director of the Department of Public Safety, highlighted ongoing efforts, including generous donations for the outer islands. PUC General Manager Nixon Anson provided updates on measures to maintain full water tanks and the deployment of reverse osmosis machines to Nukuoro and Sapwaufik. The Governor’s request to the National Fisheries Corporation (NFC) for a vessel resulted in positive outcomes, facilitating the transportation of essential supplies to Pingelap and Mwoakilloa next week. Governor Joseph and Lt. Governor Ioanis also urged the immediate commissioning of the waterline system from Pehleng to Kinakapw to enhance response efforts.  

Kolonia, Pohnpei: February 9, 2024 – Governor Stevenson A. Joseph warmly received United Kingdom Ambassador to the FSM, Dr. Brian Jones, and Second Secretary – Regional Affairs, Andrew Hesseltine, during a courtesy call at the Governor’s office. The discussions commenced with a focus on recycling, acknowledging Pohnpei’s ongoing initiatives in this area. Land ownership and investment potentials for Pohnpei State were also touched upon, reflecting the mutual interest in fostering sustainable development. The meeting delved into the current emergency declaration, with Governor Joseph sharing insights into current response efforts. Ambassador Jones, based at the British High Commission in Fiji, Suva, accredited to the FSM, RMI, Kiribati, and Nauru, expressed his intention to return later in the year to visit the remaining states of the Federated States of Micronesia. The courtesy call concluded on a positive note, affirming the commitment to continued collaboration and diplomatic ties with the United Kingdom.

Kolonia, Pohnpei: February 9, 2024 – Governor Stevenson A. Joseph delivered remarks and presented certificates at the conclusion of the Pohnpei State Government Administrative Officers Transparency and Accountability workshop. The workshop, focused on standardizing government forms and processes, aimed to enhance legality, accountability, and compliance with established laws, thereby minimizing errors and maximizing efficiency. Governor Joseph congratulated the participants on their commitment and challenged them to apply the knowledge gained to their daily work. Emphasizing the pivotal role of Administrative Officers in impacting the effectiveness and efficiency of their respective offices, he urged them to integrate transparency and accountability principles into their responsibilities. The event marked a significant step towards fostering a culture of excellence within the Pohnpei State Government.

Kolonia, Pohnpei: February 9, 2024 – The United States Veterans of Pohnpei (USVP) leadership, led by President Herman Semes Jr., paid a courtesy call on Governor Stevenson A. Joseph, accompanied by Vice President Winfred Mudong, Treasurer Canita Rilometo Nakamura, and Secretary Ray John. The meeting, also attended by Chief of Staff Kapilly Capelle, featured an introduction of USVP officers and a discussion on the organization’s priorities. Among the priorities outlined were the establishment of a memorial for Veterans, securing a dedicated space for the organization, and utilizing Pohnpei House in Honolulu for Veterans requiring medical services in Hawaii. Governor Joseph expressed gratitude for the Veterans and their vital priorities, acknowledging the significance of USVP as an essential organization. He sought their collaboration in identifying a suitable location for a memorial, affirmed willingness to work on providing a dedicated space, and supported formal requests regarding Pohnpei House to ensure active referrals align with its primary mandate. The meeting concluded with a commitment to ongoing collaboration for the well-being of Pohnpei’s Veterans.  

Kolonia, Pohnpei: February 9, 2024 – The Board of Directors for the Caroline Fishing Corporation (CFC), led by CEO Marko Kamber, paid a courtesy call on Governor Stevenson A. Joseph to discuss the current state of the Tuna Market and provide insights into CFC’s ongoing operations. The meeting, held at the Governor’s office, was marked by open dialogue and shared aspirations for the continued growth of CFC in the region. CEO Marko Kamber presented an overview of the dynamics within the Tuna Market, shedding light on the challenges and opportunities that the industry currently faces. He provided valuable insights into CFC’s operational strategies and emphasized the corporation’s commitment to transparency, citing annual audits as a key measure to ensure accountability. Both Governor Joseph and the Board of Directors expressed their shared commitment to fostering a conducive environment for CFC’s growth, acknowledging the corporation’s vital role in the local and regional economy. The discussion centered around collaborative efforts to navigate challenges, explore new avenues for development, and capitalize on emerging opportunities in the fisheries sector. Governor Joseph commended CFC for its commitment to transparency and welcomed the corporation’s dedication to annual audits as a means of ensuring accountability and maintaining the highest standards of operation. The Governor expressed his desire to see CFC thrive and continue to contribute to the economic well-being of Pohnpei, as Pohnpei State owns approximately 42 percent of CFC. The meeting concluded on a positive note, with mutual assurances of ongoing collaboration and support between the government and the Caroline Fishing Corporation. Both parties reiterated their commitment to working hand-in-hand to navigate industry challenges and facilitate sustainable growth for the benefit of the community.  

Yap-Guam: February 2 – 6, 2024 – The Honorable Stevenson A. Joseph, Governor of Pohnpei State marked his first official trip since assuming office by attending an important economic summit hosted by the Federated States of Micronesia (FSM) Department of Resources and Development. Accompanied by Chief of Staff Kapilly Capelle, Governor Joseph aimed to strengthen economic ties, fostering discussions on strategic initiatives for economic growth and sustainability. The economic summit, organized by the FSM Department of Resources and Development, provided a platform for Governor Joseph to discuss key economic issues, exchange ideas, and explore potential partnerships that could drive sustainable development and growth in the region. While in Yap, Governor Joseph paid a courtesy call to The Honorable Charles Chieng, Governor of Yap, and Lt. Governor The Honorable Francis Itimai. The meetings were characterized by warm exchanges and a shared commitment to fostering stronger ties between Pohnpei and Yap. Departing Yap, Governor Joseph and Chief of Staff Capelle made a brief stop in Guam, where they seized the opportunity to meet with residents of Pohnpei residing in the area. The visit was an occasion to connect with the diaspora and gain insights into their experiences and perspectives. During their time in Guam, Governor Joseph and Chief of Staff Capelle also made courtesy calls on Governor Lou Leon Guerrero and Ms. Lindsay Timarong, President of the Pacific Island Development Bank, along with her staff. These meetings aimed at furthering cooperation and collaboration between Pohnpei State and Guam, exploring avenues for mutual development. More details of Governor Joseph’s inaugural trip will be shared in future releases.