Majuro, Marshall Islands – October 18, 2024 – Her Excellency President Hilda C. Heine warmly welcomed the US Indo-Pacific Command (INDO PACOM) Deputy Commander Lieutenant General Joshua M. Rudd today for a courtesy visit, emphasizing the strong bond of free association between the Republic of the Marshall Islands (RMI) and the United States.
During the meeting, President Heine highlighted the significance of collaboration in addressing regional challenges and the need to counter threats posed by illegal and anti-democratic activities that disrupt the functioning of democracy in the region. President Heine highlighted issues of national security including drug trafficking, to which the Joint Task Force for Micronesia and the proposal to station an RMI representative at the U.S. Embassy in Majuro was raised. Other key matters to better address the needs of the RMI people were also discussed including pending issues and actions around collaboration with the U.S. government through the Joint Trust Fund Committee.
Concluding the meeting, President Heine expressed eagerness to work with Lieutenant General Rudd and the U.S. government on efforts to advance relations well into the future. The meeting underscored the commitment of both nations to strengthen their alliance and ensure mutual security and prosperity.
