OIA PRESS RELEASE

New U.S. Ambassador Presents Credentials in the FSM

Washington, D.C. (September 18, 2007)  - According to the Kaselehlie Press newspaper in Pohnpei, the new U.S. Ambassador Miriam Hughes presented her credentials to FSM President Manny Mori on September 11, 2007.  Ambassador Hughes succeeds former Ambassador Suzanne Kreitner Hale who left the FSM in August 2007 to return to Washington, D.C., after successfully serving a 3-year tour.

In her remarks, Ambassador Hughes commended President Mori and the FSM who, “In the short term since achieving sovereignty, have come a long way. We have all now entered a sensitive, new epoch – a sharp end along a historic road. Today’s challenges require that we move forward together, bearing in mind a keen perspective”.  Ambassador Hughes applauded President Mori’s “courageous leadership and determination to chart a bold course for your country toward balanced economic growth, job generation and unified governance that is respectful of your rich cultural traditions. The United States has shined a spotlight on the Pacific region. We are proud to be your partner. The Amended Compact of Free Association is a core vehicle that we will try to harness to better advantage.  And we will seek to build other areas of cooperation that support mutual objectives.  “We expect the road ahead will be difficult and at times perilous…The Micronesians, of course are a very capable people. At UN headquarters, I repeatedly observed your delegation and noted how strategically and articulately they engaged in global diplomacy. Often we shared a coincidence of views, reflecting our historic bonds and our bedrock values. Our ties are as deep as the Pacific Ocean.”

Ambassador Hughes gave special mention to the brave men and women of the FSM in the US Military Forces. “Among them are a daughter of President Mori and a son of Vice President Alik. We acknowledge with pride and gratitude the vital contribution of your children as well as others who have lost their lives while fighting side by side with other members of the U.S. Armed Services.  America honors your sacrifices and shares your determination”, she stated.

Ambassador Hughes is originally from Manhattan, New York City, New York. Just prior to accepting ambassadorship to the FSM, she was the Deputy U.S. Representative to the United Nations Economic and Social Council (ECOSOC). She earned her bachelor’s degree from Colombia University and her Masters degree from Washington University in St. Louis, MO.  She has one daughter.