The Federated States of Micronesia (FSM) is an independent island nation in the western Pacific between the Philippines and Hawaii. It is composed of around 600 islands within the Caroline Island chain that are grouped into four states, roughly along cultural and linguistic lines - Yap, Chuuk, Pohnpei and Kosrae.  The nation’s islands are spread across two million square kilometres of ocean; however, the total land area is small, covering only one hundred square kilometres.   

FSM is a federal constitutional republic. The constitution establishes a division of powers between the national government and the four state governments. Each state is governed by its elected governor and unicameral legislature. FSM has a small economy with a gross domestic product that reflects a small population and limited productive base. Fisheries are FSM’s most valuable natural resource. 

A Compact of Free Association (COFA) with the United States (US) is the cornerstone of FSM foreign policy. Under COFA, the US provides FSM with external defence, substantial financial assistance, access to certain US federal programs and visa-free entry to the US. In return, the US has international Defence Authority over FSM.