VP Palik Meets with Amy Pope, Director General of International Organization for Migration (IOM)

Photo Sources: Office of the President, Federated States of Micronesia, IOM Micronesia

By Christopher Cottrell

September 25, 2026___Vice President Palik and his delegation with Ms. Amy Pope, Director General of theInternational Organization for Migration (IOM) at UNGA 81.

According to a statement from the Office of the President, Federated States of Micronesia, “Vice President Palik expressed appreciation for IOM’s continued presence and support in the FSM, particularly its role as an implementing agency for U.S.-funded disaster response and recovery efforts, including the ongoing response to Typhoon Sinlaku. He also sought IOM’s assistance in developing programs to further support the needs and well-being of FSM citizens.”

For 16-years, IOM has worked across the North Pacific for emergency responses and promoting safe and inclusive migration, with the Pohnpei State Legislature last year passing a resolution commending IOM’s commitment to “protecting lives, reducing disaster risks, and reaching communities often left behind.

Last year, Salvatore Sortino, IOM Micronesia Chief of Mission said of the resolution, “No one should be left behind because of where they live or how hard they are to reach. This recognition reflects years of close collaboration between IOM, authorities, and the people of Pohnpei and FSM at large. We remain committed to standing with communities as they recove, rebuild, and adapt to growing climate challenges.

The statement added, “The meeting reaffirmed the FSM’s commitment to strengthening its partnership with IOM to address migration challenges, enhance disaster resilience, and advance the well-being of FSM citizens at home and abroad.The Vice President highlighted the adoption of the FSM’s National Migration Policy, developed with technical support from IOM.”