Coast Guard Supports U.S. Pacific Fleet Navigation Initiatives in Federated States of Micronesia

HONOLULU —
The U.S. Coast Guard conducted an aids-to-navigation and waterways assessment
in the Federated States of Micronesia in support of improved maritime safety
and defense readiness in May, the Coast Guard 14th District said in a release.

The U.S.
Coast Guard Cutter Sequoia, a 225-foot seagoing buoy tender homeported in Guam,
completed surveys in Yap, Chuuk and Phonpei. While in Yap, the Sequoia’s crew
hosted local officials and U.S. Ambassador Robert Riley. In Pohnpei, the
Sequoia crew hosted tours for the public.

The ports
and waterways of Micronesia are essential to maritime commerce and U.S. defense
readiness. A large number of commercial, military and private vessels use these
routes.

“The
U.S. Coast Guard, in a joint effort with U.S. Embassy Phonpei, U.S. Pacific
Fleet, the Department of the Interior, and the Federated States of Micronesia,
is working to improve the readiness and safety of maritime navigation
systems,” said Rear Adm. Kevin Lunday, commander of the U.S. Coast Guard’s
14th District. “Our work together is essential to strengthening the U.S.
relationship with the Federated States of Micronesia, improving regional
maritime governance, and ensuring a free and open Indo-Pacific.”

Improved
navigation systems promote maritime governance in the South Pacific, essential
for economic prosperity and a free and open Indo-Pacific.

The Federated States of
Micronesia, with a population of 105,000 people and more than 600 islands, is made
up of four states: Pohnpei, Kosrae, Chuuk and Yap.