Prime Minister Jeremiah Manele yesterday received a courtesy call from visiting Federated States of Micronesia’s (FSM) non-resident ambassador to Solomon Islands, His Excellency (HE) Carson Sigrah.
HE Sigrah, who is based in Suva, Fiji, oversees FSM’s diplomatic relations with all South Pacific countries including Solomon Islands, a statement from the Prime Minister’s office yesterday said.
During their discussions, Manele and Sigrah explored the possibility of establishing a labour mobility cooperation agreement between FSM and Solomon Islands.
Manele expressed Solomon Islands’ willingness to share its human resources, particularly in the health sector, to serve in FSM.
He noted that a similar pilot arrangement is currently in place with Niue, the statement said.
Manele suggested that once all formalities are completed the agreement could be officially signed on the sidelines of the Pacific Islands Forum (PIF) Leaders’ Meeting in Honiara in September 2025.
On trade, Manele highlighted the potential for expanding economic partnerships between the two countries. He stated that Solomon Islands has an abundance of agricultural products such as taro and cassava, which could be exported to FSM, the statement said.
The Prime Minister also acknowledged FSM’s contribution to the Regional Assistance Mission to Solomon Islands (RAMSI), which played a crucial role in restoring peace and security in the country.
Manele expressed Solomon Islands’ anticipation of hosting the 54th Pacific Islands Forum Leaders’ Meeting in September and looked forward to FSM’s participation, the statement said.
In response, Sigrah reiterated FSM’s need for support in the health sector, particularly in securing more nurses, the statement said.
He assured PM Manele that he would consult with his government to pursue the proposed labour mobility arrangement.
Sigrah also welcomed the prospect of strengthening trade relations with Solomon Islands and looked forward to formalizing this endeavour, the statement said.
Additionally, he expressed gratitude for the warm hospitality he has received since his arrival, describing his visit as an enjoyable experience.
