 FSM Congress welcomes delegation from the French SenatePalikir, Pohnpei (FSM Congress): September 24, 2010 – The resolution thanked the French Senate for accepting the invitation to visit the FSM by sending a six-member delegation. According to the resolution, the visit is a gesture of potential expansion of diplomatic and economic relations. It further expressed Congress’ hopes of further developing common interests between the two countries and their legislative bodies which could only promise a fruitful future relationship. Speaker Figir and the members met with the French Senators after the morning session to discuss issues of mutual concerns such as fisheries, historical preservation and cultural exchanges between the two countries. The Speaker thanked the senators for the assistance of the Government of France through the European Union for the projects for solar installations in the numerous outlying islands of the Federation. He further thanked France for assistance rendered to the FSM in computer systems and archeological research. Speaker Figir especially highlighted France’s role in the creation and support of a cultural museum in the State of Yap. He expressed hopes that the mutual support of cultures would foster mutual knowledge, respect and understanding between the two nations. Head of Delegation, Senator Jean-Pierre Demerliat, expressed similar sentiments to the Speaker and members of Congress and added that a report on their visit would be given to the Senate with the hopes that it will build further on the relations between the nations. Headed by Senator Demerliat, the delegation from the French Senate included Senators Catherine Procaccia, Nicole Bonnefoy and two Senate members from French Polynesia – Robert Laufoaulu and Richard Tuheiava along with the Senate Executive Secretary Dinah Desjardins. Accompanying the delegation on the visit were Christian Merer and Flora Geley from the French Embassy in Manila. The delegation’s three-day visit in the FSM from 20 – 22 September included a meeting with Pohnpei’s highest traditional chief – the Nanmwarki of Madolenihmw, a tour of the ancient ruins of Nan Madol and sight-seeing around the island.
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