CNMI Governor Arnold Palacios met with a bipartisan congressional staff delegation from the United States Senate. During the meeting, Governor Palacios highlighted key priorities, including the resumption of 902 consultations, the restoration of Covenant funding, labor force challenges, and other economic support initiatives. 

The discussion also covered other vital issues, such as improving air connectivity, integrating CNMI businesses into the defense supply chain, and support for cabotage exemption, among other topics.

During the discussion, Palacios also stressed that economic, social, and fiscal stability of the CNMI is directly tied to the interests of national security and a free and open Indo-Pacific. 

He respectfully urged the staff delegation to help advocate for the CNMI and the region’s needs in Congress, emphasizing the importance of legislative support, funding, and resources to foster continued growth and sustainability.