Federated States of Micronesia

sovereignty of the State of Israel.”The President went on to say: “Let there be no doubtabout the policy of my country. Simply put, we support the right of Israel to exist inpeace and dignity, and for its sovereign will as a state to be fully recognized and treatedwith respect.”In their response statements, the AJC President and Executive-Director expressedtheir sincere appreciation for the FSM’s friendship and support of the State of Israel overthe years at the UN. Other AJC members echoed similar sentiments.They also complimented the President on the statement that he deliveredyesterday at a high-level meeting at the UN in which he highlighted the real concerns ofsmall and low-lying islands such as the FSM as a result of global warming. Theysuggested continued dialogue to identify possible areas of cooperation.In his statement to the AJC, President Mori referred to the special relationshipbetween the FSM and US under the Compact of Free Association, noting the Review thatis to be conducted every after five years since the implementation of the Compact in2003. The first Review will take place next year. The intention of the Review is toidentify and examine the provisions of the treaty that may merit adjustment orimprovement, taking into account the special needs of the FSM Government.There was also exchange of preliminary ideas on the other areas of special needsidentified by President Mori. These other areas of special needs for the FSM includerenewable/alternate energy; improved or expanded telecommunication, includingbroadband connectivity and advanced information and communication technologies; foodsecurity through improvement in farming methods and crop production; special futureassistance; and adequate system of safe or drinkable water especially in the rural areasand remote and low-lying islands.There was concurrence among the participants in the meeting to continue thedialogue, which is needed to explore further how the issues identified by President Morimay be addressed.In the evening of the opening day, President Mori attended a reception hosted byPresident and Mrs George W Bush. He was also invited to a state banquet hosted by theUN Secretary-General following the reception by the US President.