Babauta is visiting the FSM for the first time in his capacity as the assistant secretary of the Department of the Interior.
The primary purpose of the visit is to undertake general discussions with the FSM leadership on the overall economic relationship between the Federated States of Micronesia and the United States, as well as to discuss the ongoing process, challenges and successes, associated with Compact project implementation.
After Pohnpei, Babauta will be visiting Chuuk to undertake visits to Compact project sites.
He will be accompanied by Nikolao Pula, director of the Office of Insular Affairs, and two advisors from Interior.
Mori hosted a reception at the scenic Coco Marina Bar and Grill cafe on the evening of the 26th in honor of Babauta and his delegation.
Mori congratulated Babauta for being the first Micronesian to assume the important post of assistant secretary of the Department of the Interior.
Mori and Babauta then signed two grant agreements to support the Micronesian Center for Sustainable Future and the linemen training exercise for Yap State Utilities.
Among the other guests and local dignitaries from the Pohnpei state government attending the reception were Gov. John Ehsa and state Vice Speaker Bernie Martin.
