Diplomats from the Freely Associated States (FAS), which include the Federated States of Micronesia (FSM), Palau, and the Marshall Islands, recently emphasized their citizens’ rights to live and work in the United States as stipulated under the Compacts of Free Association. This reminder comes in light of uncertainties following a recent executive order by former President Donald Trump aimed at reforming immigration policies.
Representatives from the FAS met with officials from the U.S. State Department and the Department of the Interior to clarify that executive directives regarding immigration do not apply to FAS citizens. Under the agreements made with Washington, citizens from these states can enter and remain in the U.S. without visas, allowing them the freedom to live, work, and study without time restrictions.
This dialogue emphasizes the importance of these compacts not only as a legal framework but also as a cornerstone for the economic support given to these nations by the United States. In March 2024, the Biden administration reaffirmed its commitment to these compacts, pledging substantial economic assistance totaling $7.1 billion over the next two decades.
The FSM government stated that FAS ambassadors were able to convey to the U.S. side that their citizens should not be considered “illegal” immigrants in the context of recent executive orders, particularly concerning birthright citizenship and immigration enforcement. This communication underlines the legal protections afforded to these citizens, which the U.S. government acknowledges and respects.
In addition, the FAS diplomats discussed the implications of the 90-day pause on certain foreign assistance categories, reinforcing that aid programs tied to the compact agreements are exempt from any freezes. This concern was well received, with U.S. officials agreeing to review these foreign assistance protocols.
As these conversations unfold, there is a sense of optimism surrounding the continued support for the FAS nations. The potential for bolstering economic ties and maintaining a stable legal environment for their citizens in the U.S. remains crucial for fostering a healthy relationship between these Pacific nations and the United States.
In summary, the meeting and subsequent clarifications reinforce the critical nature of the Compacts of Free Association in safeguarding the rights of FAS citizens and ensuring ongoing economic collaboration with the U.S. Ultimately, these developments point towards a hopeful future in which legal protections and economic initiatives can thrive, benefiting both the United States and its Pacific allies.
Leave a comment