1 May 2018

Micronesian leaders tasked with putting resolutions into action

10:22 am on 1 May 2018

The leaders of Micronesia are now tasked with putting into action a series of resolutions passed during their summit last week that include efforts to improve healthcare.

The governor of the Northern Marianas, Ralph Torres.

The governor of the Northern Marianas, Ralph Torres. Photo: CNMI Republican Facebook

The Micronesian Islands Forum brought together the presidents of Palau, the Federated States of Micronesia and the Marshall Islands, the governors of the Northern Marianas and Guam, plus the leaders of each of the Federated States.

Climate change, migration and the islands' close, but complicated relationship with the United States were among issues discussed.

Palau's president Tommy Remengesau also raised concern about Micronesian's poor health related to a bad diet based on imported food.

Our CNMI correspondent Mark Rabago said Governor Ralph Torres was pleased with the summit, as this year's host on Saipan.

"He was happy to exchange ideas and as a result after the three days they were able to agree on passing resolutions that covered environment, workforce and also cooperation with regards to building their island economies."

Mark Rabago said forum discussions on telemedicine to improve healthcare impressed the CNMI, but low internet connectivity to other nations could make it less appealing.