Guam – Her Excellency President Hilda C. Heine joined distinguished Micronesian Presidents and Governors from the Freely Associated States and US Territories for the 26th Micronesian Islands Forum (MIF) in Guam from May 3-5, 2024. The annual forum provides a crucial platform for leaders from the region to address opportunities for cooperation on issues of mutual interest such as health, education, trade and security.
In her opening statement on June 3, 2024, President Heine highlighted the urgent challenges facing Micronesian nations, including the devastating impacts of climate change on island communities, soaring airfares affecting regional transportation, and issues of national security.
President Heine underscored the significance of the Forum as a vital opportunity for demonstrating Micronesia’s solidarity, enabling exchange of ideas and best practices, and exploring solutions to address shared challenges. Her Excellency remarked, “All of these challenges demand our collective action and unwavering commitment to the Micronesian way – a spirit of collaboration and unity.”
While in Guam for the MIF, President Heine also held three bilateral meetings with key counterparts, including Governor Lou Leon Guerrero of Guam, President Wesley Simina of the Federated States of Micronesia, and Vice President Uduch Sengebau Senior of Palau. The bilateral meetings facilitated productive discussions on regional flight connectivity concerns, garnering support for the Marshall Islands’ candidacy for a seat on the UN Human Rights Council and proposal before the International Maritime Organization on global carbon levy. With the assistance of Governor Guerrero, Her Excellency also had the opportunity to meet with the Guam National Guard including Brig. Gen. Michael Cruz to discuss the possibility of extending a National Guard State Partnership Program to the Marshall Islands.
On the closing day of the Forum on June 4th, MIF Chairwoman Governor Leon Guerrero announced the Marshall Islands’ selection as the host for the 27th Micronesian Islands Forum in 2025. The 26th Micronesian Islands Forum stands as a testament to the region’s collective resolve to address shared challenges and forge a path towards a prosperous and sustainable future.
President Heine’s delegation included Finance Minister David Paul, Ambassador Junior Aini, Chief of Staff Emma Kabua-Tibon, Assistant Attorney General Davina Nathan, Culture and Internal Affairs Secretary Brenda Alik, Foreign Ministry Assistant Secretary Winder Loeak, Alicia Edwards and Fred Muller from MIMRA PAN Office, Molly Helkena from SPC, Maria Sahib from Micronesia Centre for Sustainable Transport and Dale Withington from SPREP – North Office.
