21 May 2020

FSM moves to help stranded citizens

9:19 pm on 21 May 2020

The Federated States of Micronesia has announced support for its citizens stranded abroad by border closures.

President of the Federated States of Micronesia, David Panuelo.

President of the Federated States of Micronesia, David Panuelo. Photo: RNZ / Jamie Tahana

Hundreds of Micronesians were stranded mostly in Guam and Hawaii while they tried to find their way back to the country.

But they were caught out when FSM sealed itself off to prevent the arrival of Covid-19.

In his state of the nation address, President David Panuelo said US$300,000 had been set aside to help them.

"In the coming days, we will be assisting each and every one of our citizens currently stranded in transit abroad, especially in Guam and Hawaii. Our citizens are our obligation and we are united in our efforts to assist them."

Mr Panuelo gave no date for when the FSM might reopen its borders.