Top Navy Admiral Lisa Franchetti Discusses Key Issues with Micronesian Leaders

Chief of Naval Operations Spokesperson Navy Cmdr. Desiree Frame provided the following readout:

Chief of Naval Operations Adm. Lisa Franchetti met with key leaders from the Federated States of Micronesia (FSM), including Vice President Aren Palik, Secretary of Foreign Affairs Lorin Robert, and Lt. Gov. Mekioshy William of Chuuk. The meetings took place on July 21-22.

These discussions underlined the shared commitment between the U.S. and FSM to maintain longstanding defense and security ties. This partnership, grounded in the Compact of Free Association, strives to ensure freedom, stability, and prosperity in the Indo-Pacific region.

The leaders explored new opportunities for defense cooperation, particularly in Yap State. They also considered enhanced exercise opportunities as the partnership between the U.S. and FSM continues to grow.

They underscored the critical role of the U.S. Navy’s Pacific Partnership 2024-2, the largest maritime humanitarian and civic assistance mission in the Indo-Pacific, in supporting the people of FSM.

Adm. Franchetti highlighted the role of the U.S. military as a defense force for the freely associated states, including Micronesia. She recognized that Micronesian citizens serve in the U.S. military at a higher rate per capita than any other U.S. state.

This was Franchetti’s first meeting with FSM leadership.