Ambassador Suzuki thanks FSM for warm reception

I would like to express my heartfelt gratitude to His Excellency President Mori, national and states governments’ officials and many citizens including children who waved flags on the sidelines, or performed traditional dance for their warm reception extended to the Japanese participants to the Rainbownesia Program.

I am very pleased to witness that the inaugural direct flight between Japan and the FSM resulted in a magnificent landmark of our history of friendship.

Japanese visitors were deeply satisfied with their trip, and so many members left the FSM telling that they would be back again to this beautiful country.

Once the flight landed on Saturday, June 9th, the handover ceremony of extension of Pohnpei International Airport runway was held with President Mori, government officials, many citizens, and international press present in the arrival terminal lobby. The ceremony demonstrated how Japanese ODA fund is used for the efficient development of the FSM.

On the second day at the Spanish Wall, the visitors had opportunities to experience traditional performances, local foods, and purchase Micronesian crafts. The following two days were dedicated to discover the beauty of the nature, to visit famous sites such as Nan Madol and Sokehs Mountain, and to attend cultural exchange with local people. A certain number of participants extended their visit to Chuuk state to meet their relatives whose ancestors came and started to live in Chuuk, and deepened their friendship.

This project is a milestone of new relationship between the FSM and Japan, and I am sure that our bond of friendship, or “Kizuna” will be further strengthened in the future.

I am eager to see a second and third direct flights to follow with new visitors on board.

Once again, I thank you all of the FSM people.

Eiichi Suzuki
Ambassador of Japan to the FSM