Under Secretary of the Navy Thomas Modly completed a partnership-building visit to the Federated States of Micronesia, Sept. 29, 2018.

Modly was in the area to meet with senior officials to discuss bilateral and multilateral maritime security issues and efforts.

Meetings were held with a delegation from the Federated States of Micronesia government and Pohnpei Island government.

Modly discussed, among other topics, improving our security cooperation, shared security interests, and our mutual desire for safety, security and prosperity in the region.

“The United States enjoys a historic partnership with the Federated States of Micronesia,” said Modly. “The United States and the Federated States of Micronesia have a unique relationship through the Compact of Free Association and its citizens have developed a strong connection to the United States. As part of this special relationship, many citizens of Micronesia have served in the U.S. military, and many of these brave service members have given their lives to ensure freedom for us all. I enjoyed the opportunity to meet with the nation’s and island’s leadership and look forward to our continued partnership.”

Modly also spent time with Construction Civic Action Detail, Federated States of Micronesia (CCAD FSM) from Naval Mobile Construction Battalion 1 (NMCB 1) out of Naval Construction Battalion Center (NCBC) Gulfport, Mississippi.

Modly participated in a ground breaking ceremony for a CCAD FSM development project at the Madolenihmw High School with the U.S. ambassador to the Federated States of Micronesia.

The Seabees of CCAD FSM are on six-month deployment to Pohnpei to conduct civic engagements and construction projects.

Modly's stop in Pohnpei is part of a multi-nation visit to the Oceania region focused on strengthening partnerships and cooperation.

For more news from the Under Secretary of the Navy, visit https://www.navy.mil or www.twitter.com/USNavyUnderSec.