FSM Information Services
Press Release
President Panuelo Discusses Enduring FSM-U.S. Partnership with the new U.S. National
Security Advisor to President Trump at the White House
WASHINGTON, D.C.—On October 11th, 2019 His Excellency David W. Panuelo, President of the
Federated States of Micronesia (FSM) was received by the new U.S. National Security Advisor to
U.S. President Donald J. Trump, Robert C. O’Brien, in a courtesy call. The National Security
Advisor is at the top of the National Security Council, which advise the President of the U.S. on
matters of national security. The purpose of the meeting was to reaffirm the enduring and
unshakeable partnership between the FSM and the United States, and to discuss security issues of
mutual interest to both countries.
President Panuelo emphasized that defense is a major and perpetual pillar of FSM-U.S. relations,
which National Security Advisor O’Brien agreed was a critical relationship for both countries.
National Security Advisor O’Brien then asked President Panuelo what he, and the National Security
Council, can do for the FSM.
President Panuelo noted that, while the defense ties between the FSM and the U.S. are of critical
import, that economic development—and economic stability—correlate with a country’s overall
defense outlook. The President advised that interpreting the FSM’s security to include the health of
its economy, and economic opportunities for its citizens, may be of value in future FSM-U.S.
dialogues, such as the Joint Committee Meeting (JCM) to occur in Palikir this coming November
2019.
The meeting ended on a positive note, including National Security Advisor O’Brien advising his—
and the U.S. Government’s—appreciation for the FSM citizens who have served, or are currently
serving, in the U.S. Armed Forces. O’Brien extended his thanks and gratitude to those who have
paid the ultimate sacrifice in the pursuit of the FSM’s and the U.S.’ common goals and values,
including the upholding of democracy, freedom of navigation in the Indo-Pacific, and the rule of
law and justice for all.