Alik L. Alik, Micronesian politician, 7th Vice President of the Federated States of Micronesia

Alik L. Alik, born on January 26, 1953, is a distinguished diplomat and influential politician from the Federated States of Micronesia (FSM). He notably served as the 7th Vice President of the Federated States of Micronesia for two consecutive terms, from May 11, 2007, to May 11, 2015, playing a crucial role in the nation's governance and international relations during this period.

Early Life and Educational Pursuits

Hailing from Kosrae, one of the four constituent states of the FSM, Alik completed his high school education in 1973. Demonstrating an early commitment to higher learning, he subsequently journeyed to the United States for advanced studies. His academic journey began at the United States International University in Hawaii, where he attended from 1973 to 1976. He then continued his education at Graceland College (now Graceland University) in Iowa from 1976 to 1979, where he majored in Political Science and Business Administration. Upon his return to Kosrae, Alik dedicated two years to serving his community as a student counselor at Kosrae High School, contributing to the development of young minds in his home state.

A Distinguished Diplomatic Career

Alik’s illustrious career in public service formally commenced in 1982 when he joined the FSM Department of External Affairs (now known as the Department of Foreign Affairs) as a Foreign Service Officer. In this pivotal role, he was responsible for representing the nation’s interests abroad and shaping its foreign policy. His dedication and expertise quickly led to his promotion to Deputy Chief for the Division of South Pacific Affairs, highlighting his early focus on regional diplomatic engagement within the Pacific.

A significant milestone in his diplomatic journey occurred in 1989 when Alik was appointed as the first Micronesian ambassador to Fiji, serving in this prestigious capacity until 1998. This appointment marked a historic moment for the FSM, solidifying its presence and fostering relations within the Pacific region. During his tenure in Fiji, his responsibilities expanded significantly through cross-accreditation, a practice where one ambassador represents a country in multiple nations from a single resident embassy. Ambassador Alik was thus concurrently accredited as the FSM's Ambassador to a wide array of nations, including:

• Israel
• Tonga
• Nauru
• Kiribati
• Samoa
• Tuvalu
• Solomon Islands
• Vanuatu

This extensive portfolio underscores his vital role in establishing and maintaining robust international ties for the nascent island nation. Following his impactful service in the Pacific, he was appointed ambassador to Japan in 1998, a critical diplomatic post given Japan's status as a major development partner and economic supporter for the FSM.

Notably, Alik L. Alik holds the distinction of being the second FSM diplomatic envoy to Israel, following Ambassador Jesse B. Marehalau. This particular relationship holds significance as the Federated States of Micronesia and Israel formally established diplomatic relations on November 23, 1988, a partnership often recognized for the FSM's consistent support for Israel in international forums.

Transition to Political Leadership

Alik's shift from diplomacy to domestic politics began in 2003 when he successfully ran for office. He was elected as Kosrae State's at-large representative to the 13th FSM Congress. In the FSM’s unicameral Congress, an at-large representative serves the entire state rather than a specific district, reflecting broad electoral support. His deep understanding of national and international issues quickly positioned him as a key legislator. During the 13th Congress, he chaired the influential Committee on Resource and Development, overseeing crucial economic and environmental policies. He also served as a member of the Committees on Judiciary & Governmental Operations and External Affairs, demonstrating his versatility and commitment to comprehensive governance. His leadership continued into the 14th Congress, where he assumed the significant chairmanship of the Foreign Affairs Committee, leveraging his extensive diplomatic background to guide the nation's international policy.

Vice Presidency and Legacy

On May 11, 2007, Alik L. Alik ascended to the office of the Vice President of the Federated States of Micronesia, a testament to his distinguished career and the trust placed in him by the FSM Congress, which elects the President and Vice President from among its members. During his two terms, ending on May 11, 2015, he played an integral role in supporting the President, fulfilling constitutional duties, and contributing to the stability and development of the FSM. His tenure as Vice President further solidified his legacy as a dedicated public servant who contributed significantly to both the internal governance and external representation of his island nation.

In his personal life, Alik L. Alik is married to the former Shra C. Lonno, and they have two children.

Frequently Asked Questions About Alik L. Alik

Who is Alik L. Alik?

Alik L. Alik is a prominent diplomat and politician from the Federated States of Micronesia (FSM) who served as the 7th Vice President of the FSM from 2007 to 2015.

What significant positions did Alik L. Alik hold in the FSM government?

Before becoming Vice President, he was a Foreign Service Officer, the first Micronesian Ambassador to Fiji (cross-accredited to several other nations including Israel and Japan), and a key member and chairman of various committees in the FSM Congress, including Foreign Affairs and Resource and Development.

Where did Alik L. Alik receive his higher education?

He attended United States International University in Hawaii (1973-1976) and Graceland College (now Graceland University) in Iowa (1976-1979), where he majored in Political Science and Business Administration.

When was Alik L. Alik Vice President of the Federated States of Micronesia?

He served as Vice President for two terms, from May 11, 2007, to May 11, 2015.

What is the significance of FSM's diplomatic ties with Israel, and Alik L. Alik's role in it?

The Federated States of Micronesia and Israel formalized relations in 1988. Alik L. Alik was the second FSM diplomatic envoy to Israel, highlighting the FSM's consistent and supportive relationship with Israel on the international stage, often rooted in shared democratic values and historical ties.