FSM Permanent Mission to the United Nations

06/09/2026

Micronesia and Qatar establish diplomatic relations
https://unmission.fm/micronesia-and-qatar-establish-diplomatic-relations/

June 8, 2026 (New York) – Today, Micronesia established diplomatic relations with the State of Qatar in a ceremony held in New York. H.E. Mr. Jeem S. Lippwe, Permanent Representative of the Federated States of Micronesia and H.E. Ms. Alya Ahmed Saif Al-Thani, Permanent Representative of the State of Qatar signed the document, formalizing relations.

During the meeting, the Ambassadors briefly discussed the importance of multilateralism to both countries. They agreed to continue working together on issues of mutual interest. The Ambassadors mentioned both climate change and social development.

The establishment of diplomatic relations between the two countries reaffirmed the principles and purposes of the Charter of the United Nations and was done in accordance with the provisions of the Vienna Convention on Diplomatic Relations of 18 April 1961. It was attended by various members of the two respective Permanent Missions to the United Nations in New York. Qatar is the one-hundred and fourth (104) country with which FSM has established diplomatic relations.

06/08/2026

06/08/2026

UN-Portugal Fellowship 2026

First Secretary Kenneth Welles was selected for the 3rd UN-Portugal Ocean Fellowship, held May 17-22, 2026, in Lisbon, Portugal. The fellowship was organized by the United Nations Department of Economic and Social Affairs (DESA), Portugal's Ministry of Foreign Affairs, and the Oceano Azul Foundation. The program provides senior ocean policy officials from UN Member States with a capacity-sharing initiative tailored to decision-makers and aims to equip future leaders with the knowledge and skills to address critical ocean-related challenges. Photos provided by Oceano Azul Foundation.

06/08/2026

On May 26, 2026, Ms. Jourdyn Adams joined our Mission for two months self-funded internship this summer. Ms. Adams is deeply interested in the legal and policy challenges confronting small island states, particularly those related to sea-level rise, the right to a healthy environment, and the right to development. During her time with the Mission, she is eager to learn and help advance F.S.M.’s national priorities on the global stage. Ms. Adams is a rising second year law student at the Belmont University College of Law in Nashville, Tennessee.

06/05/2026

Joint Meeting of the Executive Boards of
UNDP, UNFPA, UNOPS, UNICEF, UN Women and WFP
https://unmission.fm/joint-meeting-of-the-executive-boards-of/

5 June 2026

Intervention delivered by Ms. Universe Y. Lawrence, Deputy Permanent Representative

Chair, Excellencies, colleagues,

Micronesia welcomes this discussion as we look toward the UN80 process and the future of the UN development and humanitarian system.

On humanitarian diplomacy, we recognize the UN's essential role in negotiating access, securing humanitarian corridors, and advocating for the protection of civilians. We commend the Resident Coordinator in Micronesia and UN entities under the UN multi-country office for the North Pacific for their swift response following Typhoon Sinlaku last April. Their rapid action was enabled by the UN's on-the-ground presence, which allows for quick mobilization when crises strike. For small island developing States, humanitarian diplomacy must also address climate-driven emergencies, which increasingly define our islands' humanitarian landscape. The UN's support for anticipatory action and disaster-risk financing remains vital.
On system-wide coherence, Micronesia supports stronger coordination while preserving each UN entity's distinct mandate and comparative advantage. Coherence should enhance effectiveness, not enforce uniformity, especially in small island contexts where duplication strains limited national capacity.

Regarding the roles of Executive Boards and Member States, we underscore that governance bodies must remain central to shaping reforms that affect mandates, operational models, and accountability. In this context, the Resident Coordinator's role is also critical. Strong coordination between the Boards and RCs is essential to ensure that country-level leadership aligns with the strategic direction set by Member States. Without clear lines of accountability, there is a risk of misalignment between Board-mandated priorities and RC-led coordination efforts, particularly in multi-country office settings where resources and attention are already stretched. Early and structured engagement between Boards and RCs can help prevent these gaps.

Finally, on evidence and transparency, any significant UN80-related proposals should be accompanied by clear analysis, costings, and risk assessments. Transparent and inclusive consultation will help ensure that reforms are equitable, data-driven, and aligned with country needs.

Micronesia remains committed to a UN system that is coherent, accountable, and fit for purpose, one that can meet the humanitarian and development challenges of the next decade, especially for those most exposed to climate impacts.

I thank you.

06/01/2026

Micronesia and Azerbaijan Establish Diplomatic Relations

June 1, 2026 (New York) – Today, Micronesia establishes diplomatic relations with the Republic of Azerbaijan, making it the 103rd country. The signing ceremony between H.E. Mr. Jeem S. Lippwe, Permanent Representative of the Federated States of Micronesia and H.E. Mr. Tofig F. Musayev, Permanent Representative of the Republic of Azerbaijan to the United Nations deepens the relations and mutual cooperation between the two nations.

Before entering into diplomatic relations, the Republic of Azerbaijan provided support to Small Island Developing States (SIDS), including financial support for climate change meetings, scholarships, and satellite data to understand the current state of climate change. It hosted the 29th United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change Conference, sharing the same national priority with SIDS. Although Micronesia has no government presence in Azerbaijan, Ambassador Lippwe expressed hope to build bridges between both countries. Both nations have committed to enduring mutual cooperation.

06/01/2026

Micronesia and Azerbaijan Establish Diplomatic Relations



June 1, 2026 (New York) –Today, Micronesia establishes diplomatic relations with the Republic of Azerbaijan, making it the 103rd country. The signing ceremony between H.E. Mr. Jeem S. Lippwe, Permanent Representative of the Federated States of Micronesia and H.E. Mr. Tofig F. Musayev, Permanent Representative of the Republic of Azerbaijan to the United Nations deepens the relations and mutual cooperation between the two nations.

Before entering into diplomatic relations, the Republic of Azerbaijan provided support to Small Island Developing States (SIDS), including financial support for climate change meetings, scholarships, and satellite data to understand the current state of climate change. It hosted the 29th United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change Conference, sharing the same national priority with SIDS. Although Micronesia has no government presence in Azerbaijan, Ambassador Lippwe expressed hope to build bridges between both countries. Both nations have committed to enduring mutual cooperation.

05/02/2026

Happy World Tuna Day!

In 2017, the United Nations General Assembly came together to designate May 2nd, as World Tuna Day by adopting a resolution to recognize tuna’s importance to food security, coastal economies, and sustainable fisheries. Nine years ago, the Micronesian delegation actively engaged in the negotiations on the resolution.

For Micronesia, tuna holds significant value to our people and nation. Tuna fisheries generate substantial revenue for our country and remain a vital source of income for which we depend on. It is therefore imperative that we continue to protect, responsibly manage, and sustainably preserve our tuna stocks for the benefit of present and future generations.

We celebrate this vital food resource because tuna not only feeds our people but also sustains our economy.

What is your favorite type of tuna?

05/02/2026

On May 1, 2026, the Mission welcomed Professor Green and his students from Hofstra University. This has become an annual learning opportunity the Mission holds with Professor Green’s class.

05/01/2026

“The situation in the Middle East, including the Palestinian question”

Statement delivered by Universe Y. Lawrence, Deputy Permanent Representative

New York, 30 April 2026

https://unmission.fm/security-council-open-debate-onthe-situation-in-the-middle-east-including-the-palestinian-question/

Mister President,
I thank the Kingdom of Bahrain for convening this important open debate and for its leadership of the Security Council during the month of April.
Micronesia remains gravely concerned by the evolving and interconnected crises across the Middle East. The continued escalation of violence, including attacks that threaten the sovereignty and security of States in the region, risks further destabilizing an already fragile situation. In this regard, Micronesia strongly condemns attacks by Iran against its neighbors, as well as its continued support for armed groups that contribute to instability across the region.
We are equally alarmed by any actions or threats by Iran to disrupt or close the Strait of Hormuz. Such actions would constitute a serious violation of international law and pose a direct threat to global peace, security, and economic stability. For small island developing States like Micronesia, the free flow of energy and commerce through international waterways is essential. We underscore that freedom of navigation must be fully respected and safeguarded.
Micronesia unequivocally affirms Israel’s right to defend itself against attacks and threats to its security. This right is fundamental and non-negotiable. Israel cannot be expected to tolerate ongoing attacks against its territory or population. At the same time, we emphasize that all measures taken in self-defense must be consistent with international humanitarian law, and ensure the protection of civilians.
We are also deeply concerned by the escalating situation along the Blue Line between Israel and Lebanon, including continued attacks by Hezbollah against Israel. These actions risk provoking a broader regional conflict with devastating consequences. We call for the full implementation of Security Council resolution 1701 (2006), the cessation of hostilities, and for the Lebanese State to exercise effective control over its territory.

Turning to the Palestinian question, we reaffirm our support for a peaceful, negotiated solution to the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, based on relevant United Nations resolutions and the two-State solution, with Israel and a State of Palestine living side by side in peace and security.
Micronesia emphasizes the urgent need for de-escalation across all fronts and calls on all actors to refrain from actions that further inflame tensions or undermine regional stability.
As a small island developing State, Micronesia places strong faith in multilateralism, respect for sovereignty, and adherence to international law. We urge the Security Council to act with unity and resolve in addressing these serious and interconnected challenges.

I thank you.