‘We must keep our cultures strong’

“We must keep our cultures strong, our values as people of Micronesia, and our friendships with each other”

These were the words of Gov. Arnold I. Palacios during his remarks at the 26th Micronesia Islands Forum in Guam last June 2.

Last week, Palacios, met with regional leaders from Guam, the Federated States of Micronesia, the Republic of Palau, the Republic of the Marshall Islands, and the Republic of Nauru at the 26th Micronesian Islands Forum.

In his opening remarks, Palacios highlighted the importance of implementing regional initiatives and leveraging technology to build stronger links across the region.

Palacios also encouraged everyone to keep their cultures strong, values, and friendships with each other, and to work together to find solutions and navigate the path to a greener, more resilient future for all of Micronesia.

The Micronesian Islands Forum was established in 1994.

It comprises of island nations and territories in Micronesia including the CNMI, Guam, Federated States of Micronesia, and the Marshall Islands.

The Micronesian Islands Forum’s main goal is to encourage cooperation and collaboration on common issues such as sustainable development, climate change, ocean conservation, economic development, cultural preservation, and regional security.

It also provides a platform for members to interact with other regional and international organizations.

The forum also encourages cooperation and collaboration on health, environment, and other important issues the Micronesia region faces.

The forum’s theme this year is “Writing Our History, Shaping Our Future.”

Palacios’ trip to Guam came less than a week since his return from his last trip from Japan where he, along with the Marianas Visitors Authority, hosted the Marianas Seminar.

MVA organized the seminar in Tokyo to provide details about Saipan, Tinian, and Rota, with the goal of generating new Marianas products and new media coverage to attract more Japanese travelers to the destination.