Micronesian Islands Meet Against Backdrop of Great Power Competition

From August 17 to 21, leaders and representatives from the Micronesian subregion gathered for the 28th Micronesian Islands Forum (MIF) in Pohnpei, the capital of the Federated States of Micronesia (FSM). The forum aimed to tackle pressing regional issues and promote collaboration, under the theme "Promote Healthy Communities, Open Doors to Learning." As a special representative for the Northern Mariana Islands, I had the opportunity to attend this significant event.

The timing of the MIF, just weeks before the Pacific Islands Forum (PIF) in Palau, demonstrated the growing importance of regional cooperation amidst the backdrop of great power competition. The MIF's location, the State of Pohnpei Administrative Building and Governor's Office, built and renovated by China, highlighted the strategic interests of various powers in the region.

China and the United States, two significant development partners, were present at the forum. Chinese Ambassador Wu Wei addressed the gathering, while U.S. Chargé d’Affaires to Palikir arrived just days prior. Meanwhile, Japan was investing $30 million in a port expansion project in Pohnpei, and Australia had provided financial support for a solar mini-grid in the outer island of Pingelap.

These investments underscored the strategic significance of Micronesian states to great powers and showcased their commitment to regional development. The forum's standing committees addressed various matters, including U.S. deep sea mining efforts, the development of commercial fisheries, and the financial stability of the MIF itself. The latter issue was particularly crucial, as member states called for sustainable funding to support a permanent secretariat, alleviating the burden on future host governments.

The MIF's discussions came at a time when Micronesian states were navigating their relationships with various powers. Five years prior, these nations had contemplated withdrawing from the PIF after a failed attempt to secure the secretary-general position. However, they later re-joined the forum, emphasizing the importance of regional collaboration and a robust MIF in coordinating their interests amidst the complex geopolitical landscape.