He itemized priority areas that his administration will focus on for the next four years.
Among these are progressive implementation of compact infrastructure projects, steady facilitation of private sector development, proactive engagement in climate change negotiations, reforms in government efficiency, further bolstering of long-term improvement in education and health, up-scaling of steady revenue generation, further harmonization of foreign investment regulations, etc.
He appealed to “fellow citizens” to take part on an individual basis in the endeavor for all-around development by improving self-sufficiency, furthering education, embarking on business ventures and nurturing healthy lifestyle habits, among others.
He also made direct appeal to the state governments to foster an open-door policy toward foreign investment, without which, according to Mori, sustained economic growth would continue to be impaired.
As an important component of responsible governance, Mori urged fellow leaders in the FSM to “lead by good example” and to “always do what is right, irrespective of the consequences to our own political careers.”
Words of gratitude were directed to FSM citizens living abroad for their contributions to the economy through remittances and for keeping strong ties with their home country.
Citizens abroad were reminded to be “good ambassadors,” respecting rules and requirements of their communities.
The increased participation of Micronesians in the U.S. armed forces was raised with words of appreciation regarding the men and women, and their parents, in the military for their “sacrifice for world peace” — one for which some “have paid the ultimate price,” Mori said.
He acknowledged the presence of many Micronesian leaders and pledged that his administration will “work closely with (them) in areas of mutual interests including climate change, fisheries, environment, air transportation, trade and migration of FSM citizens.”
The joint-inauguration ceremony for the executive branch and legislative branch of the national government was attended by Palau President Johnson Toribiong, Marshalls President Jurelang Zedkaia, CNMI Gov. Benigno R. Fitial, Guam Gov. Eddie Calvo, Guam, Speaker Judith Won-Pat, Guam Sens. Rory Respicio and Tina Muna-Barnes, and Hawaii state Sens. Clayton Hee and Kalani English.
