December opened with an outbreak of influenza-like illness in Yap State; Federated States of Micronesia Health authorities recorded a surge in respiratory cases and stepped up surveillance and response measures to contain the spread

A nuclear-capable missile that China test-fired from a submarine flew over multiple Pacific nations and south of FSM; China had called the launch "routine", but was not announced by the agreed 48-hours notification

Partnership with Overseas Fishery Cooperation Foundation OFCF has been reaffirmed committing for sustainable fisheries development and strengthening coastal communities; key topic discussed, the installation of ice-making machines on Moch and Fanapanges

A Drought Information Statement from National Weather Service in Guam covers Micronesia's Yap State, urging residents to monitor their water supplies in view of drier-than-normal weeks; forecasts say rain will return later this year when El Niño develops

NEC's East Micronesia Cable System EMCS is now completed; the submarine cable connects three Pacific island nations and in the Federated States of Micronesia has been handed over to FSM Telecommunications Cable Corporation FSMTCC