Top defense officials from the U.S. and the Republic of the Marshall Islands met in Honolulu for the first-ever joint committee meeting under Joint Task Force–Micronesia.

Led by  U.S. Navy Rear Adm. Greg Huffman, Commander, Joint Task Force-Micronesia, the U.S. Ambassador to the Republic of the Marshall Islands Laura Stone and the RMI Minister of Foreign Affairs and Trade Kalani Kaneko, the two-day meeting reaffirmed a shared commitment to security, peace, and prosperity.

"This is an exciting and historic time as JTF-M participates in the RMI-U.S. JCM for the first time. The JCM exemplifies the strength and unity we share and provides an opportunity to not only reaffirm our commitments, but to specifically address security, peace and prosperity for the Marshall Islands," Huffman said. "This is an opportunity to deepen our understanding of the unique challenges facing the community, expand upon the strong partnerships we have built over the years, and to ultimately get to work on actionable tasks."

Four key areas of cooperation were discussed: defense readiness, internal security, maritime awareness, and environmental challenges.

Marshall Islands officials urged greater U.S. military presence, calling their islands crucial to homeland defense.

"We appreciate the opportunity to meet with you in person today and to share the priorities that matter most to the people of the Marshall Islands," said Kaneko. "While we recognize that the threats posed by our adversaries are real and pressing, it is equally important for us to know that we can rely on our U.S. military partners to increase presence in the region. By viewing our islands not just as distant nations, but as integral to the defense of the region and the U.S. homeland, we will enhance security and peace on our islands."

The talks fall under the Compact of Free Association, strengthening regional ties while advancing mutual defense goals.