FOREIGN
RELATIONS
The Government
of the Federated States of Micronesia conducts its own foreign
relations. Since independence, the FSM has established diplomatic
relations with a number of nations, including most of its Pacific
neighbors. Regional cooperation through various multilateral organizations
is a key element in its foreign policy. The FSM became a member
of the United Nations in 1991.
U.S.-MICRONESIAN
RELATIONS
The Governments of the FSM and the U.S. maintain deep ties and a cooperative relationship. Reflecting a strong legacy of Trusteeship cooperation, over 25 U.S. federal agencies continue to maintain programs in the FSM. Under the Amended Compact, the U.S. has full authority and responsibility for the defense of the FSM. This security relationship can be changed or terminated by mutual agreement. Also under the Compact, Micronesians can live, work, and study in the United States without a visa. Micronesians volunteer to serve in the U.S. Armed Forces at approximately double the per capita rate as Americans. Americans can live and work freely in the FSM without the need for a visa.
The U.S. will provide about $100 million annually in assistance to the FSM over the next 20 years. A Joint Economic Management Committee (JEMCO) consisting of representatives of both nations is responsible for ensuring that assistance funds are spent effectively, with the aim of fostering good governance and economic self-reliance. The basic relationship of free association continues indefinitely.
Principal U.S. Officials
Ambassador--Miriam K. Hughes
Deputy Chief of Mission--William Douglass
Management Officer--Jonathan Floss
Economic/Consular Officer--Jason Wemhoener-Cuite
The mailing address for the U.S. Embassy is P.O. Box 1286, Kolonia, Pohnpei, Federated States of Micronesia 96941. Telephone: 691-320-2187. Fax: 691-320-2186. Email: USEmbassy@mail.fm.
