Hafa Adai, yan Tirow,

At the outset, on behalf of the Commonwealth Economic Development Authority (CEDA) Board of Directors, management and staff, the Executive Director, and I posthumously express our profound gratitude to the late Manuel Atalig Sablan for his untiring support, dedication and commitment to CEDA. The late Mr. Sablan was CEDA’s Executive Director from February 2009 to August 2024. His leadership and invaluable service to this agency and The Marianas are greatly appreciated. As we report on our activities and accomplishments, we give special recognition to the late Mr. Sablan and his contributions.

Despite the uncertain times we live in, CEDA remains a steadfast and committed to the aggressive promotion of opportunities in The Marianas. These opportunities will strike out in new directions. Of course, these new directions will present their own sets of challenges. For the last three years, CEDA started reaching out to investors, outside The Marianas but not ignoring the onset of venture capitalists coming into the island to invest. CEDA will continue to aggressively promote the islands as an ideal place to invest by providing tax exemptions and other business benefits.

Going forward, we will continue to operate within our strategic framework; actively involve in the identification, formulation and promotion of new projects; continue to build positive relations with clients; and will continue to work with local leaders to improve the business climate in The Marianas. CEDA aims to accomplish its mission and to be an economic development institution and a benefactor of sustainable returns to our stakeholders with active participation from all sectors – both government and private sectors. It may require a significant amount of effort, but together we will face the future with hope, vigor and confidence.

Si Yu’us Ma’ase’ & Ghillisou,