US Ramps Up Attention On Micronesia To Curb China's Expanding Influence

During a visit in August to the Federated States of Micronesia, Secretary of State Mike Pompeo gushed about the beauty of the tropical island of Pohnpei.

“I would encourage everyone to come, bring your family, spend money,” Pompeo said at a press conference with newly elected FSM President David Panuelo and top officials from the Republic of Palau and the Republic of the Marshall Islands.

“You will love to meet the wonderful people of these great friends of the United States.”

It was the first time a U.S. Secretary of State ever officially visited the Pacific nation even though it is among America’s closest allies.

Pompeo was there to announce the beginning of renegotiations of three strategic agreements with the FSM, Palau and the Marshall Islands that give the U.S. military control over the countries’ land, airspace and surrounding waters.

Read more: https://www.civilbeat.org/2019/12/why-the-us-wants-to-extend-key-treaties-with-micronesian-nations/