Guam, CNMI legislatures working to move free trade forward

by Ken Quintanilla

Guam - The first general assembly of the Mariana Islands Legislature Association wrapped Wednesday between members of the CNMI and Guam legislatures.

Speaker Judi Won Pat called the inaugural meeting a success that allowed healthy dialogue on matters of mutual concern to island leaders. "We're so close and we're so isolated from everyone and what we're trying to do is bridge gaps, to be able to assist them to help them grow and at the same token we want to do the exact same thing, so we want reciprocity, so it's easier for us to do that then we would maybe let's say with an independent nation because of their political status," she said.

And while the topics of the cruise line industry and universal health care might take some time to accomplish, Won Pat says establishing free trade specifically in regards to livestock, cattle and produce can possibly see fruition through updating statutes and regulations. A resolution meanwhile was adopted by all 26 members outlining MILA's goals moving forward.

The second general assembly is set for May of next year in Saipan focusing on mental health, persons with disabilities and treatment and therapy.