Governor Joseph delivers remarks at opening ceremony of the Fifth CEC in Chuuk

Pohnpei Public Information

In his opening remarks, Governor Joseph expressed gratitude to Governor Alexander R. Narruhn, the Chuuk State Government, and the people of Chuuk for their warm hospitality before turning to the core challenges facing the Federated States of Micronesia (FSM).

“We gather at a critical juncture for our nation,” Governor Joseph said. “The agenda before us over the next two days directly addresses the everyday realities of critical tasks before us for the benefit of our citizens: strengthening Compact implementation and financial governance, tackling energy security and fuel costs, advancing transportation and digital connectivity, and building human capacity across our four states.”

Governor Joseph emphasized that achieving progress on key issues—including subrecipient and bonding matters under the Compact of Free Association, securing marine resources, and expanding economic opportunities—requires actionable solutions and direct coordination between national and state leaders.

He noted that the outcomes of the 5th CEC are directly connected to the regional summit Pohnpei will host next week.

“This gathering holds special significance for Pohnpei State as we prepare to host the 28th Micronesian Islands Forum immediately following this summit,” Governor Joseph stated. “The work we do here at the Chief Executive Council serves as a vital anchor to harmonize our FSM leadership priorities before stepping into the broader regional discussions of the MIF and aligning our national stance for the upcoming Pacific Islands Forum. The CEC remains our essential forum for internal strength, alignment, and unity.”

Governor Joseph reaffirmed Pohnpei State’s commitment to collaborating with the national government and sister states to deliver concrete outcomes for the people of the FSM.

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