“We welcome these visits. We think it’s high time that we engage the defense department [in talks]. We’re trying to find out exactly what they need,” said Inos. “The military presence will give our economy a boost.”
He said the visits allow local officials to ask about the military’s proposed activities for Tinian, the Northern Islands, Pagan and other uninhabited northern islands.
“This thing is a national security issue and there are things that they certainly cannot discuss with us but we’re hoping for some mutual benefits. We want to be part of the discussions,” he added.
This Tuesday, the Legislature is scheduled to hold a joint meeting with Rear Adm. Douglas Todd Biesel.
Biesel succeeded Rear Adm. William French as commander of U.S. Naval Forces Marianas and as U.S. Defense Representative for Guam, the CNMI, the Federated States of Micronesia and Palau.
French was assigned to take command of the Navy Region Southwest in San Diego this month.
On Aug. 24, the new Secretary of the Navy Ray Mabus will also have a brief meeting on Saipan with local officials.
