What Is The Capital Of The Federated States Of Micronesia?

The Federated States of Micronesia is a four-state nation located in the Western Pacific Ocean. It is an associated state of the US that comprises of about 607 islands. The country has a land area of only around 702 square km and hosts a population of about 104,937 people. Despite its small land area, FSM actually occupies 2,600,000 square km of the ocean. It has the world’s 14th largest Exclusive Economic Zone. Palikir is the capital of the Federated State of Micronesia. 

What Type Of Government Does The Country Have?

FSM is a federal representative democratic republic. Here, the President of the Republic serves as both the head of state and head of government. The President and his Cabinet comprise the executive branch of the government. The legislative power is vested in both the Congress and the president. The judiciary of FSM is independent of the two other branches of the government.

What Is The Capital Of FSM?

Palikir is the capital of the Federated State of Micronesia. It is, however, not the largest settlement in the country and not even the largest one on the island where it is located. The town has a population of only around 4,600 people.

Where Is Palikir Located?

Palikir is located in the Pohnpei Island’s northwestern center. It is located about 8 km to the southwest of the largest town on the island, Kolonia. Heavily wooded forests surround the capital city. The island is the most beautiful one in the country. It is also the biggest, wettest, and highest island in FSM. The landscape of the island features mountains and coral atolls. The 2,566 feet tall Mount Nanlaud on the Pohnpei Island is the country’s highest point. Palikir experiences a tropical rainforest climate.

History Of Palikir

In the past, Palikir was a small village that was hardly noticeable. The island of Pohnpei where Palikir is now located was mainly ruled by the indigenous tribal chiefs. The islands came to the notice of the rest of the world only when the European explorers arrived in the region. The Pohnpei island was first discovered in the 15th century by the Europeans. However, despite the discovery, no foreign power attempted to colonize the islands in the region until 1886. A colonial Spanish settlement was established on the Pohnpei island in that year. Later, the islands were bought by Germany from Spain during the Spanish–US War in 1898. Japan occupied the islands during the Second World War. After the defeat of Japan in the war, the US attained control over the islands. Throughout all these years, Palikir remained insignificant. It was only after the FSM attained independence from US rule in 1979 that the government of the country decided to develop Palikir to serve as the capital of the country. In 1989, the city was declared to be the capital of the country.

Role Of Palikir As The Capital Of FSM

As the seat of the national government of FSM, Palikir houses all government offices, the residence of the President of FSM, the meeting place of the legislature, and more. Palikir is a relatively new urban area and is currently in a stage of growth and development.