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Summit in the Republic of the Marshall Islands to focus on renewable energy
July 13, 2009
(Majuro, Republic of the Marshall Islands) Governor Felix P. Camacho today travels to Majuro for the 11th Micronesian Chief Executive Summit (MCES). The bi-annual meeting is being hosted by Republic of the Marshall Islands President Litokwa Tomeing. Other attendees include CNMI Governor Benigno Fitial, Palau President Johnson Toribiong, FSM President Emanuel Mori, Chuuk State Governor Wesley Simia, Yap State Governor Sebastian Anefal, Kosrae State Governor Robert Weilbacher and Pohnpei State Governor John Ehsa.
“With so much regional growth expected in the near future, this a critical time for all of Micronesia,” said Governor Camacho. “We must use this opportunity to build a consensus on several issues of mutual concern for our people.”
The MCES was founded in 2004 by Governor Camacho and former CNMI Governor Juan Babauta, and calls for the establishment of the sub-regional meetings to establish closer ties, enhance existing ties, expand future discussions and agree on beneficial initiatives for the benefit of the entire Western Micronesian Region.
This year’s summit will focus on various issues including the security challenges of visitors and business travelers through Micronesia, the expansion of communication networks in the region and the latest efforts to combat the H1N1 virus in the islands.
Additionally, participants will discuss ways to study the most effective means of renewable energy to meet the demands of the growing populations expected for Micronesia over the next decade. Governor Camacho will be recommending that the University of Guam and Guam’s utility agencies play a critical role in spearheading this important research project.
“Energy policy for Micronesia starts with promoting joint regional awareness campaigns and a regional feasibility study,” said Governor Camacho. “An assessment of potential renewable energy sources in the region, including wind mapping, ocean energy and solid waste energy, will greatly assist decision makers with the implementation of realistic plans and sustainable designs for future infrastructure and development projects.”
Governor Camacho will also lead discussions with the Pacific Islands Development Bank (PIDB) to seek inclusion the Republic of the Marshall Islands (RMI) as a member. PIDB is a regional development bank, established by the Association of Pacific Islands Legislature (APIL) in July 1989, with the mission of contributing to the acceleration of economic and social development of member States and nations and to promote regional cooperation.
“The RMI has formally expressed interest to join the bank through a resolution recently passed by the National Parliament,” said Governor Camacho. “Their membership will strengthen our collective efforts to secure additional external funding and capital to support programs and assistance to our large and growing client base.” |
