Governor Arnold I. Palacios welcomed representatives from Google, SubCom, and NEC to his office in Saipan for an update on the Google Pacific Connect Initiative and the upcoming landing of submarine cables in the Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands. 

Governor Palacios was joined by his Special Assistant for Broadband Policy and Development, Glen Hunter. 

The visiting team is in the CNMI to conduct site assessments and meet with local stakeholders as they prepare for the installation of a new submarine cable system. 

Their visit provided an opportunity to review progress and reaffirm a shared commitment to strengthening the CNMI’s digital infrastructure.

The CNMI and Guam will serve as key nodes on the Pacific Connect Initiative network, along with Fiji and French Polynesia. The PCI, led by Google, aims to enhance digital connectivity across the Pacific region through advanced submarine cable technology. 

The project remains on schedule, with the first cable landing in the CNMI, known as the PROA Cable from Japan, set for the first quarter of 2026.

Governor Palacios expressed his appreciation for the strong partnership and emphasized the significance of this project for the islands’ future.

“This partnership marks a major step forward for our islands. Reliable and resilient connectivity is essential for economic growth, public services, and our quality of life. We are grateful for the dedication of Google, SubCom, and NEC as we work together toward this important milestone,” said Palacios.