First Day of U.S.-Pacific Island Country Summit Explores Economic Opportunities
Washington, D.C. – Governor Lou Leon Guerrero joined U.S. Secretary of State Anthony Blinken today for the start of the inaugural U.S.-Pacific Island Country Summit hosted by President Joe Biden in Washington, D.C. The two-day summit is an initiative to strengthen partnerships and allyships after years of indifference towards Pacific issues. The first day of the summit also was joined by U.S. Secretary of Commerce Gina Raimondo and U.S. Special Presidential Envoy for Climate John Kerry.
“I am taking every opportunity to grow Guam’s relationship with the greater Pacific community and leverage our partnerships with the United States to foster a more resilient and prosperous future for the entire region,” said Governor Leon Guerrero. “Right now, our island is supporting one of the largest military buildups in American history, and many fellow island territories and nations are viewing our national relationship as a test of the United States’ commitment to the Indo-Pacific. Our administration will continue working to set an exceptional example.”
The first day of the summit included presentations on the various funding opportunities made available to Pacific Island governments by the U.S. including for infrastructure, transportation, energy, climate change, digital capacity, and maritime security. The second and final day of the summit will include meetings with President Biden, trade representatives, business leaders, and members of the U.S. Chamber of Commerce who will present on market access, commercial investment, job creation, sustainable agriculture, and fishing and forestry development.
“As we enter an era of increased focus in the region, we join fellow Pacific Island leaders in urging for more consistent and sustainable actions from the United States,” Governor Leon Guerrero added. “With the wisdom that has guided our Pacific clans for generations, in addition to more substantive support from the Biden Administration, we can more effectively address climate change, natural resource management, renewable energy growth, and economic development.”
###