Congresswoman Uifa’atali Amata represented Chairman Bruce Westerman and the House Committee on Natural Resources at Monday’s inauguration celebration of
Governor Arnold Indalecio Palacios and Lieutenant Governor David Apatang of the Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands.
“I look forward with enthusiasm to working with Governor Palacios and Lt. Gov. Apatang, and the other officials present, on the many issues of common concern throughout the Pacific islands and the U.S. territories,” said UIfa’atali.
“I lived in Saipan when my father was the last head of government not of Northern Marianas heritage,” she noted.
“Although my parents are long departed, my family has a
permanent tie in CNMI as Northern Marianas blood flows through the veins of family members. Although the time flew by, it was a delight to see some of my family here.”
Dignitaries in attendance included President of the Republic of Palau Surangel S. Whipps Jr.; Governor Lou Leon Guerrero and Speaker of the House Therese Terlaje of Guam;
Governor Alexander R. Narruhn of Chuuk, the Federated States of Micronesia; previous governors of CNMI; federal and local judges, legislators and others.
“No matter what policy differences there are between the political parties, those of us from the islands can continue to work together as a team on many issues, as we strive to
ensure equal treatment with the states on key initiatives across the board,” the Congresswoman concluded.
