SUVA, Fiji—On January 26, 2026, H.E. Carson K. Sigrah, received a courtesy visit from FSM Assistant Secretary Florian J. Yatilman of the Department of Resources & Development (R&D) and Assistant Secretary Moses Pretrick of the Department of Health and Social Affairs (DHSA), ahead of trade meeting taking place in Suva.
The meeting provided an opportunity to exchange views on recent trade developments of relevance to FSM, as well as to highlight initiatives currently under development to further strengthen trade cooperation and engagement with regional partners.
Assistant Secretary Yatilman conveyed appreciation to the FSM Suva Mission for its continued representation and engagement in regional trade processes, particularly as FSM had been in the midst of finalizing the FSM National Strategic Development Plan 2024-2043, the country’s guiding framework for long-term economic growth. He further noted FSM’s engagement with the European Union (EU) highlighting the ongoing work to strengthen EU-Pacific trade, as FSM attends the upcoming 11th interim Economic Partnership Agreement (iEPA) Trade Committee Meeting this week. Assistant Secretary Pretrick highlighted the role of DHSA in Trade, noting its responsibility for health standards and compliance through Competent Authority, an essential element for trusted certification and access to international markets.
During the meeting, H.E. Sigrah expressed his appreciation to Assistant Secretary Yatilman and Assistant Secretary Pretrick and reaffirmed the Suva Mission’s commitment to supporting FSM’s national priorities in the region, including efforts to advance trade. His Excellency also encouraged continued cooperation and invited our senior officials to share areas where the Mission may be of further assistance.
The meeting concluded on a positive note, with all parties reaffirming a shared commitment to exploring opportunities that support FSM’s sustainable economic growth and deepen cooperation with regional and development partners.
