Fresh off the signing of a new Compact of Free Association with the U.S., FSM President Wesley Simina met with Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin in Washington.

In his opening remarks, secretary Austin welcomed the President saying, “You're visiting Washington at a historic time for the relationship between the United States and the Federated States of Micronesia. Our defense ties run deep and they uphold peace and stability across the Pacific Islands, and we share a special bond.”

He continued, “Renewing the compacts was a landmark achievement, and it will help advance our shared vision of a free and open Indo-Pacific.”

In Siminia’s opening remarks, he said, “In reaching this historic moment, I am reminded of the words in our own constitution, and I quote, ‘Having known war, we hope for peace. Having been divided, we wish for unity. Having been ruled, we seek freedom.’”

The meeting was to discuss defense posture and cooperation between the two countries as part of the 20-year, multi-billion dollar compact renewal.