The Federated States of Micronesia (FSM) — made up of the four states of Yap, Chuuk, Pohnpei and Kosrae — has a population of approximately 113,815 people and shares maritime borders with the Republic of the Marshall Islands, Palau, Guam and Papua New Guinea. The capital, Palikir, is located on the island of Pohnpei.
FSM is an independent country in a Compact of Free Association with the United States. FSM has an American-style constitution that came into effect in 1979 and provides for a government composed of an executive branch, a legislative branch and a judicial branch.
FSM's economy is dominated by government services and is largely reliant on external grants, with only a modest private sector. FSM's small, remote and dispersed population, narrow range of natural resources, and vulnerability to external shocks, present challenges to growth. The fisheries sector is regarded as having the greatest development potential, and fishery licensing fees account for nearly half of domestic budget revenue. With an Exclusive Economic Zone of 2.7 million square kilometres, FSM bestrides major equatorial tuna migratory paths. The tourism industry is another strong area of potential for FSM, particularly diving and eco-tourism. Some 21,000 tourists visit the islands each year. Tourism development is, however, constrained by limited airline links, limited infrastructure, including roads, power and water, and by the country's geographical isolation.
Australia established diplomatic relations with FSM in July 1987 and the Australian Embassy in Pohnpei was opened in November 1989. Australia enjoys a close and friendly relationship with FSM. Australia proudly partners with the Government of FSM to support education, the environment and oceans, and women's social and economic empowerment in FSM. Australia also supports the enhancement of regional connectivity, linking the North and Central Pacific to each other and Australia.
The AIFFP in FSM
Australia’s investment in FSM, through the Australian Infrastructure Financing Facility for the Pacific (AIFFP), includes:
Infrastructure sectors: off-grid renewable energy; and telecommunications and digital
Partners (A-Z): BwebwerikiNET Limited of Kiribati; FSM Telecommunications Cable Corporation; Governments of FSM, Japan, Republic of Kiribati, Republic of Nauru and United States; Nauru Fibre Cable Corporation; and Secretariat of the Pacific Community
Projects (A-Z):
Improving digital connectivity in the Federated States of Micronesia, Kiribati and Nauru via submarine cable
Expanding the Federated States of Micronesia Outer Islands Electrification Program
Australian High Commission, Pohnpei
2nd floor, H&E Enterprises Building
Kolonia, Pohnpei
Phone: +691 320 5448
Email: phpi.mail@dfat.gov.au
For more information on Australia and FSM’s diplomatic relations, see the DFAT website.