CNMI Governor Arnold Palacios officially initiated the process for 902 talks with The White House in a letter he sent to President Joe Biden last Friday.

Section 902 of NMI’s Covenant says the U.S. and NMI governments will “consult regularly on all matters affecting the relationship between them.” 

In his letter to The White House, Palacios said he would like to focus on three issues: direct financial assistance under Section 702 of the Covenant; tourism and transportation infrastructure; and access to skilled labor.

Palacios has yet to name the individuals who will represent the CNMI in the talks. He told the media yesterday that he is waiting for confirmation from participants before announcing their names.