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NMI, Guam ink cooperation accord
A non-binding memorandum of understanding between Guam and the CNMI outlines a plan for both U.S. jurisdictions to work together on issues that affect both areas such as immigration and tourism.
Guam Gov. Eddie B. Calvo and CNMI Gov. Ralph DLG Torres signed the MOU in mid-December. Torres, who described the MOU as a first for both U.S. jurisdictions, dropped by neighboring Guam on his way back to the CNMI after going to Washington, D.C. in early December, to meet with Calvo and Guam Lt. Gov. Ray Tenorio to discuss the MOU. Torres also spoke at a University of Guam graduation ceremony.
“[The MOU] is an understanding and agreement that we are both going to fight for issues [pertaining] to both territories,” Torres said in an interview, adding that the MOU would focus on fighting for issues in which both Guam and the NMI benefits mutually.
According to Torres, those concerns include labor, economic growth, and free trade.
“I am really happy that the [Guam governor and lieutenant governor] have continued to seek ways to benefit both territories, especially…at the federal system,” he said. “We would continue to work on CW-1 [visa] issues and H2 [visa] issues.”
Rep. Ivan A. Blanco (R-Saipan), who was also present at the MOU signing, believes that when both island territories work together, more could be gained.
“Both Guam and the CNMI gain when we both contribute together. This MOU ensures that we work together on multilateral issues common to our island governments and our people,” he said.
According to Blanco, Guam Sen. Wil Castro was present during the MOU signing as well. While Lt. Gov. Victor B. Hocog played a “huge part” in “making the MOU happen,” Hocog had to attend to other meetings.
