During the credential ceremony, Ambassador Plinkert acknowledged the government and the people of the Marshall Islands for the warm welcome and underlined the long-standing relation and friendship between the European Union and the Republic of the Marshall Islands, based on a legacy of shared values, common priorities and successful development cooperation.

“The EU intends to increase its engagement with the Pacific region to build partnerships that reinforce the rules-based international order, address global challenges and lay the foundation for a rapid, just and sustainable development. The recently signed Samoa Agreement between the European Union and the OACPS (Organisation of African Caribbean and Pacific States) contains a specific Protocol for comprehensive Pacific-EU relations, defining priority areas of the European Union’s cooperation, aligned with the 2050 Strategy for the Blue Pacific Continent. I look forward to continuing working with you to further strengthen the EU-Marshall Islands friendship,” said Ambassador Plinkert.

“The Marshall Islands is an integral part of the EU’s partnership with the ACP and the Pacific and we look forward to jointly implementing our shared aspirations as laid down in the Agreement,” added Ambassador Plinkert.

She took the opportunity to congratulate the Republic of the Marshall Islands for the recent election to the United Nations Human Rights Council for the term 2025-2027, underlining that the European Union looks forward to continuing excellent cooperation with the Republic of Marshall Islands during its second term in the UN human rights body.

European Union

During her stay, Ambassador Plinkert called on the Speaker of Parliament (Nitijela), Hon. Brenson Wase; the Minister of Foreign Affairs and Trade, Hon. Kalani Kaneko; the Minister of Education, Sports and Training, Hon. Joe Bejang; the Minister for Culture and Internal Affairs, Hon. Jess Gasper Jr. as well as the Vice-Chairman of the Council of Iroij (House of Chiefs), Lejje Kabua.

Ambassador Plinkert also visited European Union funded projects supporting the Marshall Islands in the area of water resilience and sustainable fisheries. She also participated in the signing ceremony of a contribution agreement between the European Union and the United Nations Development Fund for the “Addressing Climate Vulnerability in the Water Sector – ACWA” Programme, which will enhance the ability of the Marshall Islands to adapt to increased climate risks.

ENDS.