Governor Arnold Palacios, together with Lt. Governor David Apatang, today welcomed the officers and members of the Pacific Asia Travel Association (PATA) – Micronesia Chapter, who are meeting on Saipan this week for the first Tri-Annual Meeting (2024). The meeting is organized by Marianas Visitors Authority.
The mission of PATA – Micronesia Chapter, is to assist in the development of the regional tourism industry with strategies that are environmentally sensitive, respect Micronesian cultures, adhere to high operational standards and provide opportunities for education, training and gainful employment among the Micronesian residents.
In addressing the PATA representatives from Palau, FSM, Guam, Japan, Marshall Islands, and the CNMI, Governor Palacios underscored the challenges, especially obstacles in air service, and opportunities facing all the island nations and territories. He also stressed the need to protect and conserve island environments while growing and developing tourism industries across Micronesia.