A high-level delegation from Nauru, led by Minister for Commerce and Foreign Investment Maverick Eoe, engaged in significant discussions with senior U.S. officials at the White House. The delegation included Deputy Minister Delvin Thoma, Deputy Speaker Isabella Dageago, Ambassador David Aingimea, and CEO of the Nauru Seabed Minerals Authority, Ms. Sai Sasikumar. This meeting aimed to strengthen economic ties between Nauru and the United States.
Prior to the White House meeting, the delegation held a briefing in New York, where they presented Nauru’s revised sponsorship agreement with Nauru Ocean Resources Inc. (NORI). Minister Eoe emphasized the pivotal role of deep-sea mining in diversifying Nauru’s economy and ensuring its financial sustainability. He highlighted that the agreement would not only bolster the nation’s economic prospects but also provide security for future generations.
President David Adeang expressed strong support for the delegation’s efforts, stating that the discussions signaled Nauru’s commitment to attracting investment in new industries capable of transforming the nation’s economic landscape. He underscored that the deep-sea mining partnership would promote the sustainable use of ocean resources, generate economic growth, improve livelihoods, and create jobs. President Adeang reiterated his administration’s dedication to innovation and creating opportunities that contribute to Nauru’s long-term prosperity.
During the White House talks, the U.S. administration reaffirmed its intention to lead globally in critical minerals and expressed full support for the expedited processing of The Metals Company‘s (TMC) application with the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA). Minister Eoe emphasized that Nauru’s position on deep-sea mining was firmly grounded in robust scientific data addressing environmental concerns. He stated that NORI’s scientific evidence unequivocally supports the sustainability of deep-sea mining for nodules, which is essential for providing the minerals required in the world’s transition to clean energy and combating climate change.
The discussions also focused on building a stronger, mutually beneficial partnership between Nauru and the United States. Both parties agreed to deepen engagement, recognizing the importance of collaborative action to advance regional stability, economic resilience, and environmental sustainability. This meeting marked a significant step in enhancing the bilateral relationship, with both nations committed to fostering economic growth and sustainable development in the Pacific region.
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