[hdvideo id=309]
By Rolynda Jonathan
The Micronesian Challenge regional office based in Palau is phasing out at the end of June due to financial and funding constraints. The closure however will not affect commitments made by member countries.
President Remengesau’s Office told OTV that the commitment through the Micronesian Challenge will continue as member countries are still strongly committed to achieve the goals set forth by the challenge.
Surech Hideyos of the Micronesian Challenge Regional office says the move to phase out the physical office is “the best way forward” allowing focal points to get more involved in meeting the goals of the challenge.
Hideyos reiterated that the decision does not impact the member’s commitment to the goal other than the two staff members of the regional office.
In April, the Steering Committee compromising of the five focal points representing each jurisdiction and two non-voting members made a decision to phase out the office.
The challenge to conserve 30 percent of near-shore marine and 20 percent of terrestrial resources by 2020 was declared in 2006 by then President Remengesau with support from the heads of FSM, Marshall Islands, Saipan and Guam.